A train operator has confirmed the return of a popular tourist train service serving parts of East Lancashire.

The Dales Rail train service previously ran on summer Sundays from Blackburn and Clitheroe to the Settle-Carlisle line at Hellifield.

The route, popular with walkers wanting to travel from Lancashire to the Yorkshire Dales, was axed last summer due to the number of train drivers willing to work voluntary overtime on Sundays.

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Now though, Northern have confirmed the route is set to be reinstated in June as a Saturday service operating between Rochdale and Ribblehead.

Craig Harrop, regional director at Northern, said: “It is our intention to operate a weekly Saturday only service between Rochdale and Ribblehead via Manchester Victoria, Bolton, Clitheroe and Hellifield.

"The first train is expected to operate on Saturday, June 8.”

Northern also confirmed the service will now be known as the Yorkshire Dales Explorer, and that more details will be released closer to June.

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The Facebook page ‘Friends of the Settle-Carlisle Line’ says the service will start at Rochdale and run to Ribblehead via Manchester Victoria, Bolton, Blackburn and Clitheroe, then head back to Blackburn.

From there, it will return to Ribblehead in the early evening and finish its day back in Rochdale.

A guided walks programme is also set to be provided by Lancashire Rail Ramblers.