Lifts at Pinner Tube station were finally up and running last week after the three year saga finally came to an end.

Transport for London had originally hoped to install the elevators by 2005, to tie in with the building of the footbridge, but a number of setbacks disrupted the plans.

A lack of funding meant it was actually rescheduled for 2009/2010, but when Harrow Public Transport Users Association (HPTUA) complained, the date was brought forward to 2007.

However, the programme was dealt another blow this time last year when London Underground contractors Metronet went bust and subsequently pulled out of the deal.

When works resumed, and the opening was earmarked for early this year, the finishing date was pushed back yet again after the lifts were built a different size to the shafts.

But at the beginning of July staff at the station started a 10 day training programme and the lifts were finally opened on July 18.

Anthony Wood, HPTUA chairman, is glad to see they have finally been installed and hopes stations across Harrow now follow suit to improve accessibility on trains for disabled people.

He said: "We are absolutely delighted it has all finally been completed and we just hope they are not plagued with teething problems, because it has had enough difficulties already.

"Ever since the plans were announced, we continued to kick up a fuss about them being completed because accessibility is something which is desperately needed."

Before the lifts were installed those coming from London would have to continue their journey on to Moor Park, use the lifts there, and head back to Pinner to avoid the stairs.

While this is an important development for the whole borough, Angela Dias, chief executive of Harrow Association of Disabled People, hopes other stations will follow suit.

She said: "I think the news is fantastic and every station that becomes accessible is a positive step in the right direction. But it is still a big problem and people are still avoiding using the tube because it can be a lot of hassle."

Pinner is still just the second station in Harrow to improve accessibility for disabled people with Harrow and Wealdstone station the only other in the borough with lifts.