IT was full steam ahead for railway enthusiasts as they enjoyed an actionpacked train gala.

Several thousand locomotive lovers young and old flocked to the East Lancashire Railway station in Bolton Street, Bury, for its annual winter steam gala.

The station features traditional steam trains of yesteryear and gives visitors an insight into how classic engines served the country throughout the 20th century.

As part of the weekend of festivities on Saturday and Sunday, treasured trains such as the Lord Nelson, the Sherwood Forester and the Lancashire Fusilier c a r r i e d p a s s e n g e r s between Rawtenstall and Heywood via Irwell Vale, Ramsbottom, Summerseat and Bury.

Youngsters were given a chance to sit in the driver’s seat of some of the vehicles as they rested at stations.

East Lancashire Railway’s General Manager Andy Morris said: “We were extremely encouraged by the number of people who came over the weekend.

“Some of our guests travelled from as far away as Brighton to be part of the weekend and it was nice to see so many families and children coming along.

“The younger generation has got a bit of taste and love for the engines through Thomas the Tank Engine and this kind of event gives them a chance to get up close and personal and see, touch and smell the trains.”