VOLUNTEERS are to start running the first of 44 fundraising Santa Special steam trains at the Swanage Railway.

They start this weekend and operate every weekend in December up to Christmas.

With trains departing Swanage at 10.30am, 12.05pm, 1.40pm and 3.15pm for the 12-mile one-hour round trip, seats on some of the festive trains are still available – along with some ‘Dorsetman’ three-course Christmas Luncheon trains.

Last year, 8,631 people travelled on the Santa Specials.

This year’s trains will be steaming a total distance of 530 miles.

Youngsters will receive a present while passengers will receive festive refreshments.

Proceeds go towards the extension and development of the award-winning Swanage Railway which has been rebuilt from nothing since 1976 and last year carried more than 211,000 passengers.

Swanage Railway general manager Richard Jones said: “We’ve been running our popular Santa Special steam trains for almost 30 years and their magical on-board atmosphere is the perfect way to enjoy the build up to Christmas Day.

“They are equally popular with children and adults alike.

“Passenger surveys revealed a satisfaction rating of 94 per cent and a 97 per cent rating for the friendliness for the team of dedicated volunteers that makes the very special trains happen.”

For more information contact the Swanage Railway.