THE Friends of the Settle-Carlisle Railway line will resume its weekly walking tours next week around the railway construction site at Ribblehead.

They will take place every Wednesday, leaving Ribblehead Station at 10.25am.

There will be a choice of a short or long walk, with the final walks taking place on September 2.

The short option is a two-and-a-mile stroll, covering the shanty town sites. It will return at about 1pm in time for the 1.18pm train south or the 2.05pm north.

The long walk is about five miles long and goes over Blea Moor to view Littledale, where stone was obtained to construct the viaduct, and the tunnel airshafts. This tour arrives back at Ribblehead at about 3pm.

On both walks, there are talks about the history of the railway’s construction, the life of the railway builders and refurbishment of the viaduct.

Waterproofs and stout footwear are essential as the weather at Ribblehead is unpredictable. A packed lunch is also necessary for the long walk.

There is no charge, but donations would be appreciated.

Also, new for this year, on Wednesdays July 8, July 29 and August 19, participants on the short walk can also join events which are being organised for the afternoons by Natural England.

It is hoped a further event will be held on August 12.

For more information, email paul.kampen@settle-carlisle.com