Rebirth of the line: Devon joy as rail link reopens after 50-year hiatus

Okehampton welcomes revamp of service connecting Dartmoor town to Exeter and beyond

In 1972, the people of Okehampton turned out in force to wish a fond farewell to the Devon moorland town's regular passenger rail service.

The mayor, Walter John Passmore, carried a funeral wreath and his wife, Daisy, waved the green flag to signal the final train's departure, just about managing a sad smile for the cameras.