First Minister Alex Salmond has announced that discussions are underway to secure symbolic trains to attract more tourists to use the Borders Railway.
Speaking from Hawick as part of the Scottish Government’s summer cabinet programme, Mr Salmond announced that the initiative would begin as soon as the line opened, with plans already underway to secure a famous steam train for the launch ceremony.
Mr Salmond said: “There can be few railway journeys anywhere to match the stunning scenery that will line the route of the new Borders Rail when it opens in 2015, more than 40 years after the last rail service to the region closed.
“As well as a vital commuter route, the reopened line will provide outstanding opportunities for tourism in the Borders, with passengers expected to flock to see the many fantastic attractions and experiences on offer here, not to mention the attraction that the new line will have for railway enthusiasts
“We have already announced plans to expand the proposed new station at Tweedbank to cope with the influx of tourist trains expected on the line after its completion, and I hope that the glorious thought of some historic and symbolic trains winding their way down the new 30 mile track will be enough to tempt even more people to spend some time in the Borders.”