'˜First-ever tram-train will boost both Sheffield and Rotherham's economies'

That's the view of Rotherham Borough Council leader Chris Read as the scheme finally got underway on Thursday.

Three services an hour will run between Sheffield Cathedral and Parkgate, via Rotherham central, with a journey time of 27 minutes.

Coun Read said: 'It's a big day for Rotherham. It's a big infrastructure project, which helps to connect Sheffield to Rotherham, and it is a national first.

'We're very excited to see it up and running. For people like me that have relied on rail services between Sheffield and Rotherham, it's a real upgrade.'

The route runs from the Cathedral to Parkgate, via Sheffield Arena, Ikea, Meadowhall South, where he joins the rail network, and onto Parkgate Shopping.

Coun Read said: 'There is a whole series of developments coming down from Meadowhall, past the New York Stadium, where we now have Rotherham United playing Championship football, into Rotherham town centre, where we hope to start work on Forge Island in the middle of next year.

'It will almost become a bit of a leisure corridor through Sheffield city centre, Centertainment, Meadowhall, Parkgate and Rotherham town centre which people will be able to enjoy and work in those businesses.'

Fares on tram-train services range from £1.80 to £2.50 with a Dayrider ticket available for £4.

For more information visit www.supertram.com.