On track for a steam rarity

Back in the hazy days of the steam locomotive, engines snaked through every corner of mid-Norfolk carrying hundreds of passengers about their business.

The last train to pipe its way through the countryside did so in 1962, the year the Beatles released their first single.

But on May 5 next year the gentle giants of a bygone age will be return to the tracks to carry a whole new generation from Norfolk to London's Liverpool Street station.

The East Anglian train will begin its journey at Dereham at 8am, passing through the countryside to Yaxham, Wymondham, Norwich, Diss and Colchester before reaching Liverpool Street at 12.30pm.

Visitors will then have five hours to enjoy the sights and sounds of London before a relaxing trip back, eventually arriving into Dereham at 9.40pm.

The journey will be undertaken by a B1 class steam locomotive hauling a Railway Touring company train of 1950s-style coaches.

James Steward of the Mid Norfolk Railway said: "The whole spectacle should bring a lot of memories back for people - it will be the first time they have seen a full main line-length train in the mid-Norfolk area for years."

And travellers will be able to add a little extra to their memorable experience by dining in style as they travel.

Passengers purchasing premier dining seats will be able to enjoy a full English breakfast, light lunch and four course silver service dinner at their seat as they travel.

Those with first class tickets will also receive refreshments on the trip.

The following weekend will see the return of the Pannier Tank trains which will begin the 2007 season

of regular steam trains along the Norfolk line and will run on weekends and bank holidays from May 12 to

July 1.

Fares for the East Anglian trip: standard class, adult £74, junior £39 and family £195. First class, adult £104, junior £55 and family £295. Premier dining, adult £164, junior £112 and family £475.

To book call the Railway Touring Company on 01553 661500.