ONE of the country’s most famous heritage railways is celebrating its 40th anniversary in style – and clouds of steam.

The North York Moors Railway is holding a ten day festival – until May 12 – involving its own fleet of steam locos and visiting engines.

It was on May 1, 1973, that the Duchess of Kent travelled by special Royal Train to officially open the railway between Grosmont and Pickering.

With trains now also running through to Whitby, the railway has developed to become the world’s most popular heritage railway, visited and enjoyed by almost 350,000 people each year.

One of those original royal train drivers is Chris Cubitt who has been an active volunteer and member since the earliest days, and is now vice-chairman of the owning North York Moors Historical Railway Trust.

He said: “The 40th anniversary and festival that will follow is a great chance to celebrate everything that has helped the railway develop, during our first 40 years.”

For more information call 01751-472508, visit nymr.co.uk or follow on Twitter @NYMR and Facebook @North Yorkshire Moors Railway.