Channel Tunnel reopening ceremony today

A ceremony at the Cheriton terminal of the Channel Tunnel today (Monday 8th Feb) will mark the full reopening of tunnel after a fire damaged a section of the tunnel in September 2008.

Transport Secretary Geoff Hoon will be the guest of honour to mark the fully restored tunnel - just three-and-a-half months after reconstruction works began.

From February 23 all trains running through the tunnel will operate at full speed and to a full capacity timetable.

Cheriton Councillor Tim Prater was pleased at the news of the reopening. He said:

"Eurotunnel have completed these works quickly, and I'm pleased the tunnel will be fully back in operation soon. Eurotunnel is an important local employer and a major landmark in Cheriton and Folkestone."