CHILDREN are invited on board a trip to see Santa Claus in his grotto until Christmas Eve.

The Weardale Railway began running Santa Specials at the weekend, travelling from its station in Wolsingham, County Durham, to Stanhope.

Youngsters were entertained on board by elves and Morris dancers before their arrival at Stanhope, where they were given mince pies and a present from Santa.

Volunteer Gerry Mudd said: “The feedback from the weekend has been great and the train was absolutely jam-packed.”

To book, call 01388-526203 or visit weardalerailway.org.uk Afternoon journeys are fully booked. The morning train leaves Wolsingham at 9.30am. Adults and children over four are £10 and children three and under are £5.