The Hatfield and Stainforth rail line has been reopened by Network Rail.

As of today (July 8th), passenger and freight trains will run on the railway, which had been forced to close following a spoil heap slip at Hatfield Colliery.

Phil Verster, route managing director for Network Rail, commented: "Engineers on site have worked tirelessly to complete the repair. Thanks are also due to the planning and support teams."

He added the reopening of the line, which is located close to Doncaster in South Yorkshire, is a "real cause for celebration".

A spokesperson for Northern Rail and First TransPennine Express also praised the restoration of services on the railway and said the work has been completed quicker than expected. 

First TransPennine Express has resumed its full services on the line, while Northern Rail will continue to support its offering with rail-replacement buses until July 29th.

Network Rail stated the continued work being undertaken at Hatfield Colliery will be monitored to prevent any further disruption.