A SCHEME, led by The Settle and Carlisle Railway Trust to restore the station buildings at Ribblehead as an interpretation centre, is approaching completion, it was announced this week.

This represented the culmination of several years' work, which will see the buildings, which had become derelict, transformed to their former glory.

The initial phase, completed two years ago and paid for by Railtrack, has seen the restoration of the roof as part of Railtrack's Station Regeneration Programme.

This included improvements such as platform raising and resurfacing.

Once completed, the buildings will house an interpretation display in the former waiting room and ticket office. The theme will be the history of the line and its relationship with and impact on the area.

The building will also incorporate a caretaker's flat to accommodate the person who will oversee the centre.

Edward Album, chairman of the trust, said: "It really is pleasing to see this scheme coming to fruition. Since the line was saved from closure just over 10 years ago interest in the line and its history has grown enormously. This display will add to that interest and act as a springboard to the exploration of other features in the area."

He added they were still looking for a caretaker to oversee the display.

Mr Album said: "The countryside is breathtakingly beautiful, bounded on all sides by the famous Three Peaks, and there is a good train service as well as a pub close at hand. We would be pleased to hear from anyone who might be interested."

The major part of the restoration scheme has been sponsored by the trust, in partnership with the Friends of the Settle-Carlisle Line, the Railway Heritage Trust, English Heritage, the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the European Union Development Fund.

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