FATHER Christmas is taking to the rails. A series of Santa Specials will be running on the Wensleydale Railway from this weekend until Christmas Eve.

And tickets used on the specials will also entitle travellers to a free ride on the same day on the railway's ordinary services.

Santa trains will run this weekend, and on December 4-5 and 11-12, then every day from December 18 to 23, with a limited service on Christmas Eve.

"Children can look forward to a present from Santa as he makes his way through the train," said marketing manager Emma Haley.

"Adults can relax and enjoy a freshly-baked mince pie and glass of mulled wine or fruit punch."

Tickets cost £8.50 for both adults and children, including a present suitable for the age of each child.

Trains leave from Leeming Bar Station, close to the A1 near Bedale, and from Bedale station.

Each return trip lasts approximately 40 minutes.

To book or request details contact the WR ticketline 08454 50 54 74. Booking forms are also available from tourist information centres, Leyburn Station, Leeming Bar Station and York station.