SANTA Claus proved a popular attraction at Darlington Railway Centre and Museum at the weekend.

Hundreds of children and their parents met him at the museum in North Road. There were also steam train rides, courtesy of Darlington Preservation Society, plus craft activities, music, model fairgrounds and festive fayre.

Santa Specials, as the events are known, were also held the two previous weekends and more than 1,500 people have attended.

Curator Graham Bowen said: "Santa Claus has been a real success. We have had many encouraging comments and e-mails and we have even had one family state that next year they will be coming to the museum at Christmas for the tenth year in a row.

"It is really a wonderful, traditional family event and I would like to thank all involved."

Published: 20/12/2004