Two upgraded level crossings have been unveiled on the Dean Forest Railway in Lydney.

One of the crossings is located where the Dean Forest Railway crosses the busy A48 Lydney bypass and the other is on Harbour Road.

They are situated where the trains of the heritage railway go over the road between the town centre and Lydney Junction station.

The crossings are over 20 years old and were in need of an upgrade. Both the railway and road users will now benefit from the latest technology to make sure the crossings continue to be reliable, safe and convenient for all.

The county council has provided over £900,000 in funding for the modernisation of the level crossings by contractor Schweizer Electronic.

Cllr Nigel Moor, county cabinet member responsible for public transport said, "I'm delighted that we've been able to fund this work and I'm grateful to the Dean Forest Railway for managing the project and continuing to operate and maintain the crossings."

Local county councillor Alan Preest said, "I'm really pleased that this work has been completed so the crossings can continue to serve the railway and road users for many more years to come.

"The Dean Forest Railway, along with its link with the main railway line at Lydney is a vital element in the tourism economy of the Forest of Dean".

Duncan Rowe, general manager of the Dean Forest Railway said, "This has been a real team effort. The involvement of both Gloucestershire County Council and Schweizer Electronic has been vital for the successful completion of this project which will provide many operational benefits for the railway and road users alike.

"I'd particularly like to thank our volunteers; without their passion and enthusiasm this work and the continued operation of the railway would not be possible."