Northern Rail services have resumed over the Middlesbrough to Whitby line after Network Rail Network Rail completed the replacement of four bridges on the route.

The essential works took longer than originally planned after an issue with a nesting bird caused delay to the start of works on one bridge and further aggravating factors including structural issues, poor weather conditions and difficulties with a crane.

Phil Verster, route managing director for Network Rail, said: “I would like to thank passengers for their patience during these essential and complex works and apologise again to everyone who was inconvenienced by the extended programme. The line reopened to services this morning with four new bridges which will make sure we have a safe, reliable route for many years to come.”