RAILWAY pioneer George Stephenson released 200 balloons to celebrate a weekend of family fun at a museum.

Darlington Railway Centre and Museum held a Go Loco weekend of activities, including train rides, face painting and a mini fairground.

Popular railway characters, including Thomas the Tank Engine, the Fat Controller and Bertie the Bus turned out to entertain the crowds.

A balloon launch signalled the start of the Thomas the Tank Engine prize draw, which offered the chance to win a £25 family ticket for the Thomas the Tank Engine Weekend, taking place on July 9 and 10.

Anyone who finds one of the balloons and contacts the museum will be entered into the draw.

Tickets for the Thomas the Tank Engine weekend, which runs from 10am to 4pm on both days, are £25 for a family, £5 for adults and £6 for children. Children aged under two go free.

Tickets can be bought from the Railway Centre and Museum, at North Road Station, or by calling (01325) 460532.