YOUNGSTERS are being encouraged to join in a trainspotting adventure at the National Railway Museum to dispel misconceptions about the pastime.

As part of the York-based attraction's September to March Train-spotting season, visitors of all ages can learn about the much misunderstood hobby through a range of family activities.

The thrill of visiting distant sheds, ‘cabbing’ engines and capturing those elusive, all-important loco numbers will be brought to life.

Two museum trails are combined in one specially-designed booklet, and during half-term, from Monday, October 27 to Sunday, November 2, theatre performances, cab access and craft workshops enhance the experience.

Three-year-old Elizabeth Stockton is one York train fan who earned herself a limited edition Super Spotter badge by completing the museum’s Train-spotter Train with help from mother Melanie Pugh.

Hands-on fun includes making a train-spotting-inspired clock to ensure no train sightings are missed.

The museum has also commissioned a series of free theatrical sketches by museum theatre troupe Platform 4 that will bring the subject to life.

Kirsten Berry, learning manager at the National Railway Museum, said: “We hope our family visitors enjoy becoming Super Spotters as much as Elizabeth and her mum.

“With our trainspotting season we are trying to dismiss the negative stereotypes that evolved once this great national hobby fell out of fashion.

“Enabling young train fans to gets hands-on over the holidays is the perfect way for them to discover the true adventure of trainspotting.”

For more information visit www.nrm.org.uk/trainspotting.