THE Conwy Valley Line has today reopened.

Pioneer reporter Allan George was among the first passengers on Thursday morning. The first train left Llandudno Junction at 5.30am.

The second train on the newly reopened Conwy Valley line left Llandudno Junction at 7.26am, which is the train our reporter boarded.

North Wales Pioneer:

The train arrives at Llandudno Junction. Picture: Kerry Roberts

The line was closed on Saturday, March 16 as a result of flooding, but after extensive engineering work it has been able to reopen, although only between Llandudno Junction and Llanrwst.

The remainder of the line to Blaenau Ffestiniog will reopen on Wednesday, July 24.

Speaking about the experience this morning, Allan said: "The train departed on time with four passengers on board.

North Wales Pioneer:

Departure screen at Llandudno Junction. Picture: Kerry Roberts

"One of the passengers was Paul Hillsmith of Llanrwst, a train enthusiast. He wanted to be the first to travel on the reopened line."

The train arrived at Llanrwst three minutes early.

Allan added: "The train driver, a mother of three, enjoyed the trip.

Video by Allan George & Kerry Roberts

"It was the first time she had driven on this line and she was impressed with the scenic beauty of the line, which follows the line of the River Conwy."

Since the closure of the line, teams have removed washout materials, replaced ballast, refurbished level crossings, designed and installed flood culverts and constructed embankments, to safely restore the track.

Dolgarrog station will remain closed for the time being while the flood damaged platform is replaced.

North Wales Pioneer:

Train driver Nia Jones is at the controls

North Wales Pioneer:

Ioan Jenkins, development director, transport for Wales

North Wales Pioneer:

Llanrwst railway station