THE first steps have been taken towards forming an East Lothian Community Rail Partnership.

The Association of Community Rail Partnerships hosted a meeting for representatives across the East Lothian area last month to discuss the concept of establishing a community rail partnership.

The partnership would cover the lines from North Berwick and from Dunbar to Edinburgh Waverley.

Those in attendance committed to continuing to work towards the formal establishment of the partnership.

Annette Filby, development officer for Scotland South, said: “Community rail partnerships are a great way of the community engaging with their local railway lines. To have such a strong commitment from so many is a great platform.” “A community rail partnership is about connecting the existing community groups, volunteers and activities that link to the railway and the local stations.

“It’s about working in partnership to help market the line and to improve stations, train services, bus links and access, all of which help to increase passenger numbers.” Due to the success of the meeting, a follow-up session is being organised for the end of April. Anyone interested in finding out more can contact Annette Filby on 07715 082182 or at anette@acorp.uk.com