A NOSTALGIC trip on a Dorset railway is guaranteed to blow away the Christmas cobwebs.

Classic steam and diesel locomotives will be running through the Purbeck countryside this weekend in a ‘Winter Warm Up’ mini-gala day.

Passengers will be able to enjoy a ride into yesteryear at the volunteer-led Swanage Railway on Saturday, December 28.

General manager Richard Jones said: “The public will be able to enjoy the nostalgic delights of classic steam and diesel locomotives – and an evocative freight train from yesteryear – against the beautiful backdrop of the Purbeck countryside and the dramatic ruins of Corfe Castle.”

To add to the nostalgia, a milk tanker wagon will be attached to the rear of the four-coach steam trains in a throwback to when freight wagons were added to passenger trains.

Mr Jones added: “A new winter mini-gala event offers something a little bit special to the public between Christmas and the New Year when many people are on holiday with their families and wanting to enjoy a day out with a difference.

“Our engines will be working an intensive timetable of trains throughout the day.

“The steam and diesel locomotives will also take it in turns to haul a nostalgic freight train between Swanage and Norden Park & Ride.”

Subject to availability, the featured steam locomotives could include Victorian-designed 1905 London and South Western Railway M7 tank No. 30053, 1947 express Southern Railway Battle of Britain class Bulleid Pacific No. 34070 ‘Manston’ and 1960 British Railways Class 33 diesel-electric No. 33111.

For details call 01929 425800 or visit swanagerailway.co.uk