Gisburn railway tunnel in Lancashire is a grade II tunnel and was built in 1876 to prevent horses from being scared by train noise and the preserve the view.

The castle-like structure is on the Ribble Valley line, an important route for freight trains carrying materials for construction.

Team Orange started the work on 15 January, and the work will be completed by the 23rd of February.

No disruption will be caused to any services whilst the work takes place.

Apart from restoration work to the turrets and brickwork, the tunnel is in good condition according to Network Rail.

What did the officials say?

Jack Ryder, scheme project manager at Network Rail, said: “The purpose of this job is to protect this economically important freight corridor. We’re repairing the tunnel’s ornamental ‘turrets’ by taking down sections and rebuilding them with the existing stone. We’re also repointing both portals with lime mortar. Our £100,000 upgrade will ensure this magnificent railway structure remains safe and retains its heritage appeal for decades to come.”

Nigel Evans, MP for the Ribble Valley said: “What a tribute to Network Rail in restoring this historic and iconic Gisburn landmark. It has given pleasure to countless generations over 140 years and might easily have fallen into disrepair. The fact that Network Rail has directed resources and manpower into this project means that many more future generations will get to enjoy this structure which will now be assured. This is the 19th-century shaking hands with the 21st century for perhaps centuries to come. Three cheers to the team from Network Rail for their TLC.”

• Visit the Network Rail website
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