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West Lancashire Line proves a hidden gem

The West Lancashire Line between Preston and Ormskirk is not everyone’s idea of a scenic railway, yet this hidden gem is attractive and offers many opportunities for long or short days out.

To showcase one of the many opportunities for a day out the West of Lancashire Community Rail Partnership (WoLCRP) and Community Rail Lancashire (CRL) have joined forces with Huckleberry Films to film a walk between Burscough Junction and Rufford station. The walk, which is being promoted as part of Scenic Rail Britain’s Days Out by Rail campaign, takes in the attractive Leeds & Liverpool and Rufford Branch canals as well as the historic Rufford Old Hall and highlights the many interesting things that can be seen along the route.

Richard Watts, chair of CRL, on the launch of the film: “I am really excited to be able to launch this film showcasing an easy but fascinating walk between Burscough and Rufford. For too long the West Lancashire line has been in the shadows of the north’s more glamorous scenic lines which is a shame as the line has many hidden gems which are well worth exploring. Take a look at the film, hop on a train and take the walk between Burscough and Rufford.”

Caroline Eccles, Huckleberry Films commented: “We’ve not visited this part of Lancashire before and working with Community Rail Lancashire to develop our film gave us a great opportunity to find out more about the area. It was great to discover the route for the first time and highlight the beautiful places to explore from Burscough and Rufford. We were lucky to film on warm sunny days which were perfect for a leisurely walk along the towpath, but a return visit in a different season will I’m sure offer different interesting things to see too. We hope our short film encourages people to jump on a train and head over to explore for themselves.”