LINKING Oxford and Cambridge by rail is a step closer today after a company that will see the restoration of a line between the cities officially launched.

Transport secretary Chris Grayling officially launched work at the East West Railway Company, which will look at restoring the old Varsity Line, at Bletchley Park.

Mr Grayling said: “We are making the biggest investment in the railways since Victorian times to meet the growing demand for rail travel, while also boosting business and increasing productivity.

“East West Rail is the perfect example of how we can revitalise the railways, grow the network and unlock jobs and housing growth. And Bletchley Park – the home of World War II codebreakers - is the perfect location to mark the historic occasion because the line will be key to the development of this corridor as a world-class centre for innovation, technology and high-skilled jobs.”

Rob Brighouse, interim chair of the company, said: “This railway has huge potential to spread prosperity all the way along the line, making life better for those who live and work here.

“That's why it's so important to deliver it quickly and cost effectively; and that's what the East West Railway Company has been set up to do. We are working very closely with local representatives, to make sure we build a railway that works for the passengers and the communities it will serve."