Storm-hit Dawlish railway line back on track
Hi all, Kenny here.
It was good news this morning for Cornwall and Devon holiday accommodation UK, with the storm-hit Dawlish railway line reopening for service.
With the Easter holidays just around the corner, the reopening has come at an important time for visitors to the area on their self catering holidays.
The track, which links Cornwall and much of Devon with the remainder of the UK, was badly damaged and some parts even swept away with the sea wall in early February. Images of the damage, similar to the one below, have become symbolic of the UK storms.
Prime Minister David Cameron, who was present for the reopening, said he knew "how cut off people felt here in the south-west after that terrible storm and it was so important to get this work done".
He added: "People talk about the south-west as a great tourist destination, and of course it is and I'll be back here this summer, I can guarantee you.â
"But it's not just that. This is also a hub of creativity, an area of vital industry, an area of important manufacturing and, of course, with Plymouth and all that entails, a vital area for the defence of our country."
At Paddington station traditional West Country sticks of rock were given out containing: "Welcome back Dawlish. The orange army has rebuilt the railway so you can enjoy your journey to the South West again." In reference to the orange safety wear worn by the 300-strong Network Rail team.