A rail enthusiasts' charity charter train will embark on a special run to raise funds for East Anglia's Children's Hospices (EACH).

Eastern Daily Press: Head of corporate affairs for Greater Anglia, Jonathan Denby. Picture: ANTONY KELLYHead of corporate affairs for Greater Anglia, Jonathan Denby. Picture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2015)

The trip will operate with one of Greater Anglia's intercity MkIII carriage sets 'top and tailed' by two Class 68 diesel locomotives.

It will run from Norwich to Ely and back, then from Norwich up the Great Eastern Main Line to London Liverpool Street and back – different routes from where the locomotives have previously been operating.

The price for this one-off trip on September 16 is £60 standard or £95 first class, including complimentary tea, coffee and water - with all profits from the event donated to EACH.

Greater Anglia is also auctioning two opportunities for a cab ride - one from Norwich to Ely and the other from Ely to Norwich.

Anyone booking on the tour can bid for this very rare opportunity to experience a driver's eye view of a rail journey. The participants making the two highest individual bids, received on the site by the end of Sunday, September 10, will win the cab rides.

Jonathan Denby, head of corporate affairs for Greater Anglia, said: 'It's an extremely worthwhile cause focused on the region we serve and supported by many of our employees.

'Taking in two routes on which the Class 68 locomotives haven't been operating passenger services, we hope it will be very popular and generate an impressive contribution to EACH funds. It promises to be a great day out for all involved.'

Greater Anglia said with more than 550 seats available, a sold-out trip would generate significant funds for the charity.

Graham Butland, chief executive for EACH, said: 'It's a wonderful opportunity for rail enthusiasts to travel behind these locomotives before they leave East Anglia, while also supporting local families. We're very grateful to Greater Anglia for their generosity and support.'

A café bar serving light refreshments will be available on-board throughout the day.

Anyone with any queries about the event can ring 0345 600 7245 and choose option three, followed by option two to find out more details.

Bookings can only be made on-line via https://public.greenrailtravel.co.uk, clicking on the special trains/events tab and choosing the Greater Anglia Specials option.