Botley train line reopened after Britain's biggest landslip

A vital train line in Hampshire reopened this morning after it collapsed during the biggest landslip in Britain in the floods. 80 metres of embankment fell away at Botley in torrential rain at the start of last month.

It has caused weeks of disruption for passengers travelling between London, Eastleigh, Fareham and Portsmouth.

Video. It was the biggest landslip in Britain during the floods, closing a rail line and causing chaos for commuters. But it is hoped a vital train line will re-open tomorrow, bringing some relief to passengers next week.

Around 80 metres of the embankment collapsed in torrential rain in Hampshire at the start of last month. It has meant a main line between London and Portsmouth has been closed.

Trains were diverted, and replacement buses brought in, with effects on key commuting towns like Basingstoke and Farnborough. It could be three months before everything is back to normal for fear of more landslips. But for now, at least, trains may start running again.

Our Transport Correspondent Mike Pearse reports.