IT may have gone unnoticed by much of Weardale but yesterday's trial run of the heritage railway was a famous occasion.

For the army of dedicated Weardale Railway Trust volunteers and Weardale Railway Ltd professionals, who have worked ceaselessly to reopen the line, it was the day they have waited 11 years for.

The return of steam to the railtrack proved to them that dreams can come true and that the monumental task they took on in 1993 is finally coming to fruition.

A Newcastle-built Robert Stephenson Hawthorn Austerity No 49 steam engine, built in 1943, pulled carriages through the County Durham countryside, from Wolsingham depot, through Frosterley, and to Stanhope Station.

Weaving its way through woodland and along the banks of the River Wear, it was greeted by residents, children and rail enthusiasts all eager to witness the event.

Leading the return journey along the six-mile route was an NER P1 Class 060 No 2392, from the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

Both engines have been loaned to Weardale Railway and will be back in action on Saturday when the railway is officially reopened.

Ian Cowan, of Tanfield Railway, drove the No 49. He said: "It is great to help another rail organisation. It was a superb route and will be a great asset to the Dale."

John Hunt, driver of the No 2392, said: "I wish Weardale all the success in the world. It is a fairly gentle route for the engine but is spectacular as it is very scenic."

Watching the dummy run, Steve Raine, Weardale Railway Trust chairman, said: "It was the first time a steam engine visited the dale for many years and is very satisfying.

"To see people alongside the line and on bridges to watch, despite it not being a public event or being publicised, shows how excitement is building."

Donald Heath, deputy chairman of Weardale Railway Ltd, was among a handful of workers and volunteers on board the inaugural run.

He said: "It was a milestone event for everyone concerned. We still have a lot to do and need more volunteers, but it gives us the confidence that Saturday will be a great occasion and we look forward to running seven days a week."

For fares and timetables, call 0845 6001348, (01388) 529566 or visit www.weardale-railway.org.uk