A CHILDRENS charity has teamed up with Weardale Railway to give a group of poorly children an exclusive ride on the The Polar Express.

Cash for Kids organised the special trip for the youngsters, who were given VIP treatment on the festive train ride based on the film and book by Chris Van Allsburg.

The children were chosen for the treat for a variety of reasons and include sick children from the Niall Quinn’s Children’s Ward in Sunderland and children with special needs from Collingwood Special School in Northumberland.

Debbie Craig, Cash for Kids events manager, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Weardale Railway and The Polar Express on this project, what a fantastic adventure for these children to go on.

“The children were chosen because of the difficult circumstances they are going through or have been through recently and they thoroughly deserve this treat.

“Cash for Kids is all about supporting local children who need our help the most and we would like to thank Weardale Railway for its fantastic support.”

For tickets and event information, call 08000-232383 or visit UKPolarExpressRide.com