RAIL services are set to return to normal today after a major engineering project.

Part of the Great North Rail Project, two railway bridges over the Leeds Liverpool Canal have been strengthened.

And for the past nine days services between Colne and Accrington have been affected.

Engineers have been focused on overhauling the bridge near Oswaldtwistle and another near Rose Grove station, including laying new track.

But the finishing touches were being made to the scheme last night, as the Telegraph went to press. Replacement buses operated across East Lancs for the duration of the project.

Rail bosses say they have also taken the opportunity to refurbish the canopy overhanging Nelson station, while the trains have been off.

Chris Jackson, Network Rail's regional director has said the "vital work" would provide a more reliable railway "for many years".

Canal closures run near Accrington Golf Club to March 13 and at Rosegrove until March 6.