THE glory days of rail travel are to be recreated on an excursion train linking the North-East with one of North Yorkshire's most popular tourist destinations.

The aim is to give people living in Whitby and the Esk Valley area a family day out.

The Esk Valley Fellsman leaves Whitby on Saturday, May 11, picking up passengers along the Esk Valley, and at Middlesbrough, before setting out on the Settle to Carlisle route.

Travellers will have about three hours in Carlisle before returning to Whitby via the scenic Tyne Valley line.

The North Yorkshireman will also travel from Skegness to Whitby on Monday, May 6, carrying about 500 day trippers.

The excursions have been organised by Hull company Railtourer. David Tyler, of the firm, said it aimed to bring the excursions to smaller towns which were off the beaten track. He said he hoped to be able to offer more trips in the future.

"In these days, when everyone joins the traffic jam for their days out, it would be nice to think we could turn the clock back a little to the time when days out were a little less stressed," he said.

The trains will be powered by diesel engines with standard seating around tables and first class accommodation features wood-panelled compartments.

The standard class fare from Whitby is £36 and first class is £49 per person. There is a £6 reduction for children. Tickets can be booked by calling (01482) 659082.