THE first party train of the summer departed this weekend on the Esk Valley Line between Middlesbrough and Whitby.

Musicians and a bar were all aboard the service, which will run every Friday evening until September 12.

Neil Buxton, from the Esk Valley Railway Development Company, said: "For the price of a return fare to Whitby, passengers will get three hours of music, entertaining company and locally brewed ale at very reasonable prices."

The train leaves Middlesbrough at 8.48pm and arrives in Whitby at 10.15pm. It then leaves at 10.25pm to return to Middlesbrough. To book, call (01946) 602 146.