THE Amman Valley line's first rail movement in eight years went extremely well, according to Network Rail.

A EWS Class 66 freight locomotive successfully travelled the whole length of the six-mile branch line from Pantyffynnon to the buffer stops at the limit of Celtic Energy on Monday. "There was excellent co-operation from pedestrians and road vehicles," said a spokeswoman.

"As the day progressed, neighbours became even more aware of the railway operation and as a result, the journey up and down the branch line also became slicker."

But Network Rail say there were still a couple of incidents of trespass and level crossing misuse.

"We will continue our efforts to raise safety awareness and to remind public to use level crossings correctly," added the spokeswoman.

"Our Community Safety Manager, who had visited Gwuan-Cae-Gurwen Primary School last Monday, will also continue his education effort.

"On Friday, we successfully worked the first set of empty wagons up to GCG and loaded the same locomotive with nearly 750 tonnes of coal to Swansea Burrows Sidings for transfer to Onllwyn and ultimately Aberthaw power station.

"The trial will continue over the next coming weeks and the time-table is expected to be similar as last week’s."