Santa Special journeys promise a magical time

A heritage railway has launched its Santa Specials, with a troupe of actors and performers joining the volunteers on the festive special.

Nene Valley Railway (NVR), which runs for about about eight miles (about 12km) near Peterborough, has run Christmas events before, but this year's is one of its most ambitious.

The railway's Chris O'Regan said it was a more immersive experience for children, who take part in activities during their rides on the train.

"The smell of mince pies mixed with the aroma of smoke from a steam train is quite intoxicating," he said.

"NVR could not run without our brilliant volunteers. We have over 350 [of them] and they are the lifeblood of the railway.

"But this year we thought we would take some pressure off them, so we have hired a wonderful cast of actors and performers who are dressed splendidly as elves, princesses – and not forgetting Santa and Mrs Claus."

Mr O'Regan said customers would take part in festive events before boarding the steam train.

"There will be an ice tunnel, the chance to make a Christmas toy and decorate a lush Christmas tree, as well as snowball fights and a charming grotto where they'll receive a gift from Santa Claus," he said.

But he added that putting on such a production was not cheap.

"For just one 15-mile round trip on a steam train, it costs £400 in coal alone, without anything else," he said.

Nine-year-old Zayden, from Peterborough, enjoyed the ride and watching the steam drift past the windows.

"Santa gave us presents. I got a colouring set and will do that when I get home," he said.

"I also loved how the elves came around the train, singing and dancing."

Violet, his six-year-old sister, who had never been on a steam train before, described the experience as "magical".

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