THERE will be steam-filled fun all the way on a Dorset heritage railway.

Volunteers at the Swanage Railway are running a Family Fun Week for children and adults this half term.

There will be regular steam and diesel train services, brake van rides at Swanage, face painting at Corfe Castle, Twistina providing balloon magic on most steam trains, magician entertainment on Swanage station and prize draws.

The brake van rides will be hauled by a Victorian-designed steam locomotive M7 No. 30053 built in London in 1905 for the London and South Western Railway.

The rare locomotive spent its last months with British Railways during 1964 hauling trains between Wareham and Swanage before being sold to an American millionaire and being shipped out to the USA. M7 No. 30053 was rescued and brought back to Swanage during 1987.

During Family Fun Week, the steam train service between Norden park and ride, Corfe Castle, Harman’s Cross, Herston and Swanage will be hauled by a 1940s express steam locomotive – Battle of Britain class Bulleid Pacific Nol. 34070 Manston.

The daily two-train service will also see trains hauled by a Class 33 diesel locomotive.

Proceeds from the week are going towards the extension and on-going development of the railway.

Swanage Railway marketing manager Martin Payne said: “With a range of activities and attractions for children, the Family Fun Week will be an exciting event with adults sure to enjoy it as much as youngsters – a cracking good steam-filled day out.”

* For details visit www.swanagerailway.co.uk

What's on

* Today: Nothe Fort Evacuee Experience. A chance for all the family to join in with this learning experience at Nothe Fort. Between 10am and 2pm. Tickets available from Weymouth TIC and Nothe Fort. Contact 01305 766626.

* Today: Andy and Mike’s Big Box of Bananas at Pavilion Theatre. CBeebies presenter Andy Day and partner Mike James bring their much-loved humour to the Pavilion stage. Box office: 01305 783225.

* Until Friday, February 19: Circus Skills at Lulworth Castle and Park. Join in the fun for all the family. Try stilt walking, plate spinning, juggling, the art of ribbon poi and more. Between 10.30am and 4pm. Contact 08454 501054.

* Thursday, February 18: Homes for Wildlife at Radipole Lake. Make your own bird, bat or bug house. There will be plenty of advice and tips on where to put your new house and how to look after it. Booking essential: 01305 778313.

* Until Sunday, February 21: Wildlife Explorer Week at Radipole Lake and Arne. Keep the kids busy and bring them along to enjoy the wildlife-related games where prizes can be won. Wildlife explorer backpacks including a pair of binoculars and magnifying glasses will also be on hire. Contact Radipole Lake on 01305 778313.

* Until Sunday, February 21: Sanctuaries Week. Weymouth Sealife Park. Learn more about penguins, seals, otters, crocodiles and turtles. Visitors will discover how they can help to conserve these creatures. Normal entry fees apply. Contact the park on 01305 761070.