Alan Bennett backs campaign to reopen Colne and Skipton rail line (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Alan Bennett backs campaign to reopen Colne and Skipton rail line

9:33am Thursday 2nd February 2012 in Colne By Jon Livesey, Reporter

SUPPORT Alan Bennett

PLAYWRIGHT, author and actor Alan Bennett has lent his support to the campaign to reopen the disused railway line between Colne and Skipton.

More than 300 councils, plus MPs and celebrities have already pledged support to the Skipton-East Lancashire Rail Action Partnership (SELRAP).

Mr Bennett’s support will provide added weight to the campaign ahead of a year when the group hope to make significant progress.

The 77-year-old, perhaps best known for his play ‘The History Boys’ and his series of monologues, ‘Talking Heads’, is from Armley, near Leeds.

SELRAP media officer Jane Wood said: “It was our support co-ordinator and treasurer Roy St Pierre who contacted Alan.

“He supports the campaign as he can see the community benefits for railways being opened.”

Mrs Wood has also recently contacted Prince Charles, who has pledged support.

She said: “He has shown a great interest and practical support through his charities for regenerating areas of deprivation in East Lancashire, and also his concern for the economy in North Yorkshire after the foot and mouth epidemic.

“The reopening of the line would bring great economic and social benefits, particularly for young unemployed people, so he was very interested in hearing about our campaign.”

People can hear about the plans at an open meeting at Herriots Hotel, Skipton next Monday at 7pm.

Mrs Wood added: “Sadly Alan will not be at the meeting but it would be wonderful if he could attend at a future date.”

The group’s annual meeting is at the Providence Independent Methodist Hall, Colne, on March 12.