Britain’s branch rail lines are celebrating today (14 May 2005) with cheap fares and giveaway tickets.

The branches - which provide an irreplaceable local service but also bring passengers to the main lines - are celebrating Community Rail Day.

Train operators on more than 40 routes across the country will be working together with the communities they serve to show just how vital these local services are, both socially and economically.

The initiative is part of the Strategic Rail Authority’s plan to make the branch lines cheaper to run, while attracting more passengers and extra local input.

“These local services have a key role to play in the everyday lives of communities throughout the country,” said Chris Austin, the SRA’s executive director for community rail development.

Peter Roberts, chairman of the Association of Community Rail Partnerships, said: "This is a marvellous initiative which shows that local communities and the railway industry can work together to support their local railways.

“We have been delighted at the level of support from train operators, Network Rail and the Strategic Rail Authority. May 14th will go down as a very special day for our local railways".

During the weekend of Saturday 14 May, many of the routes will be staging events and special promotions, inviting people to see their local lines in action.

Station galas will be taking place at Wrexham, Huddersfield, Barnsley, Cleethorpes, Blackburn, Whitby and Lowestoft, with activities including children's entertainment and displays.

At St Ives, Cornwall, a new sculpture is unveiled, on the Looe line passengers can shake a leg on the music train and beer lovers can join the ale trail on the Penistone Line.

Edward Funnell from the Association of Train Operating Companies: "Train operators want people to try out their local train services and to see and understand for themselves how the railways provide the economic and social lifeblood to the communities they serve".

For further information about Community Rail activities in your area, visit the Association of Community Rail Partnership's website at www.acorp.uk.com

A full list of events is at

www.sra.gov.uk/news/2005/5/Comm_Rail_Day