Train services from York to Scarborough resume today after weeks of replacement bus services following severe flooding in the area.

Work has been carried out by Railtrack to re-install point switches, cabling and telecommunications equipment in the Malton station area after staff rescued critical components before the flood waters reached them.

Once the equipment was re-installed rigorous testing and safety checks were carried out to ensure the safe operation of trains along the route.

Nicholas Pollard, Director of Railtrack London North Eastern, said: "Our engineers have worked flat out to re-open this line to ensure that our customer Northern Spirit can operate a normal service.

"We would like to thank members of the public who travel between York, Scarborough and beyond for their patience and forbearance during these difficult times."

Northern Spirit managing director Nigel Patterson: "We have been operating 98 per cent of rail services and its great to now be able to welcome back passengers to this vital link to the rest of the north.

"We are looking forward to offering our customers the quality and level of service they deserve."