CHILDREN had the chance to meet Santa while riding on a steam train throughout December.

The Colne Valley Railway in Castle Hedingham, Essex, ran their "Steam with Santa" events through the month.

David Allen, business development manager for Colne Valley Railway, said: "Step back in time and enjoy our heated nostalgic special train as it gently steams along our one mile of line whilst Santa delivers a present to every child on the train.

"We had lots of festive fun for the day, including the 12 Naughty Elves of Christmas Trail, Win a Luxury Christmas Hamper, our indoor Model Railway, demo's at our amazing Signal Box, a fantastic outdoor Garden Railway, festive colouring and puzzles, our Santa and Friends Railway Trail and lots of Arts and Crafts too."

The events ran on December 8, 9, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23 and guests flooded social media with comments about how good the days out were.