THE Settle-Carlisle railway will become the centre of attention in June when DalesRail celebrates 30 years of guided walks along the famous line.

The walking organisation was responsible for instigating the reopening of the redundant stations between Settle and Appleby.

DalesRail walks co-ordinator Ruth Evans explained: "It was back in 1974 when a few fell walkers bemoaned British Rail's attitude to their rural lines and especially the Settle-Carlisle line. At that time the only stations still open were Settle and Appleby."

Together with the Ramblers' Association, the walkers decided to charter a train over the Settle-Carlisle line and asked if some of the closed stations could reopen temporarily.

Permission was obtained from British Rail and the Ramblers' Association agreed to put up the money.

The one-off trip went ahead and proved a remarkable success, attracting 500 walkers.

"The following year this one-off excursion had become a genuine railway service which took walkers into the Dales," said Mrs Evans. "With the guided walks programme, bus links were provided to go further afield."

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority became involved, together with other interested parties, bringing attention to the fact that the railway was needed not only for tourists and walkers, but for the local people who had started using the service.

The National Park stopped organising the walks 13 years ago and the Friends of Settle-Carlisle line took over the role.

"The walks have continued and have been a major success in bringing in people from far and wide to savour the beauty of the surrounding countryside to the Settle-Carlisle Line," said Mrs Evans.

"Between June 5 and 12 we are hoping to have special celebrations to mark this 30th anniversary. Exhibitions at Settle, Ribblehead and Appleby stations - which will be suitably decorated with flags - and at Watershed Mill, in Settle and the National Railway Museum have been organised as well as Ribblehead tours, geology walks and walks around the nature reserve at Ingleborough.

"I am also hoping to produce a leaflet detailing all the events and relevant information which I have received funding for."

For further information on the programme of guided walks send a stamped addressed envelope to Ruth Evans, Walks-Co-ordinator, 16 Pickard Court, Leeds LS15 9AY.