TALKS about the future of a crisis-hit private railway will continue in the New Year.
Bosses from the Weardale Railway, in County Durham, will meet public funders after the holiday to try to resolve cash-flow problems which could have serious implications for the line's development.
The railway's 34 employees had to wait until Christmas Eve for the second half of their December wages and the situation was serious enough for major backer One NorthEast to bring in consultants to help with a short-term business plan.
A spokesman for Weardale Railways Ltd said last night: "The next month will be crucial in trying to ensure that the success we have managed to achieve since the railway opened in the summer carries on."
Since the five miles of track between Wolsingham and Stanhope reopened in July, the railway has brought thousands of extra visitors to Weardale.
Six Santa trains were sold out and a holiday service continues until Monday. For timetable details, call 0845 600 1348.
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