It's full steam ahead for a Staffordshire Moorlands heritage railway's development plans - thanks to a donation from Staffordshire-based digger giant JCB.

The Churnet Valley Railway, based at Cheddleton, is resurrecting the railway line to nearby Leek, bringing steam trains back to the town for the first time in more than 50 years. Now the nationally renowned heritage railway is on track to complete the ambitious project by the New Year after being awarded £25,000 from JCB.

The £1.6million development will see the railway extended from the Leekbrook Junction branch line to Cornhill, near Barnfields Road, where a new station will be built along with a path close to the line for walkers and cyclists.

Churnet Valley Railway general manager Greg Wilson said: "The extension of the line into Leek has been our ambition for many years and it is fantastic to see this coming to fruition.

"We hope the line will open up the town to new visitors, and kickstart further regeneration in this area of Leek.

"We cannot thank JCB enough for its generosity and we are sure that the local community will reap the benefits of this support for many years to come."

Anyone interested in supporting the Churnet Valley Railway with donations or as a volunteer can find out more at www.churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk

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