Passenger services on a heritage railway line in southern Oxfordshire restarted on Monday following overnight repair work to crossing equipment.

The Cholsey and Wallingford Railway resumed operations after a road traffic incident in July damaged level crossing infrastructure, forcing the cancellation of all scheduled trips and special events.

Free journeys were made available to passengers on the August Bank Holiday, with the line operating its characteristic heritage diesel and steam locomotives along the former Great Western Railway route.

Trains departed Wallingford station at noon, 12:40 and 13:20, with return services leaving Cholsey at 12:20, 13:00 and 13:40.

The complimentary rides were valid for that day only, as the crossing equipment had been restored to working condition during overnight works.

The collision occurred on the A4130 Wallingford Bypass and compromised the crossing mechanism used by trains travelling along the historic branch line.

The railway organisation had previously withheld comment on the incident, while reports had suggested that services might resume before the end of July.

A spokesperson for Wallingford Town Council indicated that volunteers were welcome to support the attraction, noting that opportunities existed for individuals regardless of background or prior railway experience.

The representative emphasised the importance of heritage attractions in maintaining the town’s character and supporting local tourism and community activities.