Network Rail has signalled its support for the reopening of the Tunbridge Wells to Eridge Line by issuing the Spa Valley Railway with a 'letter of intent'.

Spa Valley Railway has launched a £500,000 Return to Eridge appeal to allow the extension to go ahead.

Project manager Mike Sumpter said: "The receipt of this letter is great news. It confirms their support for the project subject to several outstanding issues being resolved, including a lease for the track between Birchden Junction and Eridge."

Bringing the line back into use would allow people to travel between the towns and villages along the Uckfield mainline and Tunbridge Wells.

Mr Sumpter said there are plans for joint tickets between the Spa Valley Railway and Southern, so passengers could travel from London to Eridge and then up to Tunbridge Wells West.

The railway's chairman Jon Nye added "What we really need now is a significant increase in both helpers and money to achieve our plan. If you ever wanted to get involved and help, now is the time – it could really make a difference.

"There is still a lot of work to be done including the installation of new signals and a signal box so we can run a two train service."