Railway's Santa Specials sold out - but try the Mince Pie trains

* George Jones took this picture showing the crowd getting off the first Santa Special as it returned from Lapland (Carrog) last Saturday.

Llangollen Railway’s Santa Special season has kicked off in fine style. 

Running throughout December weekends, including on Christmas Eve, all services are now completely sold out. 

As a result of the railway's annual appeal for new volunteers healthy numbers have come forward to staff the Santa Specials and make them a success. 

Trains are running to six fully-loaded coaches and are using a steam and diesel locomotive at either end of the train, which takes visitors to Lapland  - usually known as Carrog - whilst Santa visits every passenger with gifts for children during the journey. 

A small Christmas market also awaits visitors on Llangollen station.

All the railway’s stations have been festively decorated with lights and trees, with visitors commenting on how atmospheric the railway feels at this time of year, especially when the lights are wreathed in steam whilst their train waits in the station.   

For those looking for a trip out for some much-needed fresh air and Dee Valley scenery after Christmas indulgence, the railway's Mince Pie Specials will be running on 27th, 28th and 29th of December, with trains departing Llangollen at 11:00, 12:50 and 13:10. There will be no trains on the 30th.

* Tickets can be booked online via the railway's website at https://llangollen-railway.co.uk or purchased on the day. 

Adults will receive a mince pie and festive tipple, with children enjoying a sweet treat and drink.