The Alston Branch ran from the junction at Haltwhistle to a terminus high in the Pennines. In this programme, we explore the Branch using archive film and chart the history and route of a fascinating railway.

The programme comprises all previously unpublished footage & includes –

A History of the Alston Branch right up until closure in 1976.

A Journey along the line in the last months of British Railways operation calling in at the various stations and features on the way including Featherstone Park, Coanwood, Lambley and Slaggyford.

Branches in Transition - The lines in the surrounding area using archive film from the 1960s and including the Alnwick to Alnmouth branch with the steam-hauled passenger and freight service, the Woodburn Branch and its steam worked pick up freight, the Langholme branch and a steam worked freight and DMU operation along the line from Northallerton to Harrogate.

The Closure of the Alston Branch - Features the very last day of operation including the Stephenson Locomotive Society’s special on the 1st of May 1976. The line is also explored just after closure.

Survivors Branch lines in the North East in the 1980s including the lines to Whitby and Scarborough plus the Bishops Auckland branch in recent years.

Revival of the Alston Branch - The South Tynedale Railway with a look at the line from Alston to Slaggyford plus the route north to Haltwhistle.

Produced by - Transport Video Publishing
Running time - 70 minutes approx
Blu-ray and DVD
Released - November 2019