A TRAIN, especially named the Christmas Comet, will take to the rails between Carlisle and York as part of on- going celebrations following the re-opening after repairs of the Settle-Carlisle railway.

The diesel hailed, ten carriage train will leave Carlisle at about 7am on Saturday November 25 arriving in York four hours later. The return journey will start at 4pm having given passengers time to explore the historic city and visit its St Nicholas Fair Christmas markets.

Refreshments will be on sale from the buffet car, as well as being available to pre-book online.

In the first-class section, complimentary hot drinks will be served and an at-seat trolley service will be on hand throughout the journey.

And to capture the festive atmosphere, Father Christmas is planning to park up his sleigh for the day and make an appearance on board, assisted by his elves.

The train will call at Langwathby, Appleby, Kirkby Stephen, Garsdale, Settle and Skipton. Standard class return fares start at £65.00 for adults and £40.00 for children over five.

The Settle-Carlisle line was hard-hit last year by engineering works, with residents at the northern end of the line experiencing the worst of the disruption to their rail services.

Since repairs were completed at the end of March, passenger numbers have been "extremely healthy" carrying locals and tourists.

Drew Haley, General Manager of the Settle Carlisle Railway Development Co said:“This should be a fantastic excursion – a chance to travel in comfort to one of the UK’s most fascinating destinations, especially so at Christmas.

"We also want to do something positive for the Settle Carlisle railway’s local residents after all the difficulties of last year”.

More information and ticket sales are at www.settle-carlisle.co.uk.