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A second inspection was carried out by Col. Yolland on 15 January 1862; two days later two trains ran over the still incomplete railway calling at stations to deliver apparatus for working it. On 23 January Colonel Yolland's report recommended that the Board of Trade should approve the opening of the railway.<ref name=JM4850>[[Bibliography#Books|Marshall (1989)]] pp. 48-50.</ref> The formal opening ceremony with a special train took place on 31 January 1862, with passenger services operated by the [[West Midland Railway]] beginning on 1 February.
Fowler’s final report dated 1 February noted that the opening had been delayed by numerous and large slips in various locations, but that by means of proper drainage and continued attention the works were in a safe and satisfactory condition. His report again emphasised the particular involbement involvement of Thomas Brassey, ending;
:"''It is due to Mr Brassey to state, that through great difficulties and at considerable expense to himself, he has finished the works and permanent way to my entire satisfaction, and the trains of the West Midland Co have been run with great regularity.''"<ref name=JM4850/>
