A proposal for a coast-to-coast rail service connecting Falmouth with Newquay via Par has been awarded funding to progress the project.

The Mid-Cornwall Metro rail service has been given cash as part of the wider national Restoring Your Railway Fund to develop proposals that level up transport links across the country.

The proposal, which aims to create a coast to coast through-service connecting Falmouth, Penryn, Truro, St Austell, Par and Newquay is aimed at reducing journey times and easing road congestion for people living along the route.

The proposal has been championed by local MPs Cherilyn Mackrory and Steve Double.

Cherilyn said: “These plans will provide a coast to coast rail link between Falmouth and Newquay. A route for enabling students to easily commute from further afield to the university campuses at Falmouth and Penryn to Newquay, and a great way to grow the economy.

“I will continue to do all I can, working with local partners and the Department for Transport, to ensure this project progresses.”