New rail stations for East Linton and Reston have been included in the next ScotRail franchise, it is understood.

A new service between Edinburgh and Berwick, with timing for stops at both of the above stations, are part of a new planned timetable. The service could run through both stations as early as December 2016, Transport Scotland has said. The move has been described as bringing the re-opening of the stations "one step closer to reality".

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The announcement comes as Abellio was named the new operator for ScotRail.

In a statement, Transport Minister Keith Brown said: "This is a huge step forward towards the realisation of these services and shows a real commitment from the Scottish Government and ScotRail.

"Scotland's railways are a driver for economic regeneration and can bring jobs, investment and new study and social opportunities for communities.

"Our Scottish Stations Fund is now awaiting further details from the South East Scotland Regional Transport Partnership (SEStran) and East Lothian and Scottish Borders Councils for the funding application which will bring the new stations at East Linton and Reston to life."

(JP/IT)