A MAJOR £650,000 scheme to replace a crumbling 145-year-old bridge on a tourist railway across the North York Moors is nearing completion.

The North York Moors Railway (NYMR) undertook work to an iron bridge spanning Eller Beck, a River Esk tributary, that had worn out.

The Bridge and Wheels Appeal was set up to aid work on the bridge which carried trains 24 times a day between Pickering and Whitby.

Last month the crumbling iron beams, near Goathland, were removed and steel beams were lowered into place.

By the end of March new track will have been laid over the bridge which spans 80feet with services to run from March 27.

Philip Benham, NYMR general manager, said: "The worst winter for 30 years was not the best time to be tackling such a major construction job.

But we had to do it, in the light of its condition, and before the start of the new season. We are relieved and delighted to see the new bridge now close to completion."

The first train to cross the bridge leaves Grosmont station at 9am on Saturday, March 27, with 350 seats on offer.

Those wanting to be the first to cross the bridge face a £5 extra charge, or £10 if they travel in the Great Western Saloon.

All who travel on the first train over the bridge will get a souvenir certificate with bookings via 01751-472508 or www.nymr.co.uk.

The NYMR is to also run shuttles to the bridge on March 27-28 from Goathland station at 10.05am, 11.05am, 12.05pm, 1.05pm, and 2.05pm.

Advance booking is needed with tickets £10 and a formal ceremony to mark the re-opening is to take place at a date to be set.

A book about the work is to be penned by the NYMR and expressions of interest in it should be made to the NYMR.