WEST Somerset Railway is offering the opportunity for visitors to take part in a brand-new interactive Christmas event for 2024.

In collaboration with the Experiences Group, West Somerset Railway has created an event with all the characteristics of a traditional pantomime, but this time it will all be on board a heritage steam train travelling through the beautiful scenery of the Quantock Hills.

With the popular Winterlights train having its final date during the Christmas programme of 2023, the railway wanted to create a new fun, family-friendly event that could take over from the magic of the Winterlights services and leave lasting festive memories for passengers of all ages.

Kerry Noble, West Somerset Railway general manager, said: “We are excited to introduce a brand-new event to our Christmas line up.

“This event is perfect for families who can experience the festive cheer of a traditional pantomime but also enjoy the extraordinary experience of it being performed on a moving steam train.”

Today the Railway carries over 200,000 passengers a year making it one of the largest attractions in South West England.

There are some 50 paid staff and a key input from 900 volunteers and trains run on selected dates in all months outside the main season throughout the year and daily from early April to early October.

The Panto Train will run twice a day on selected dates between Saturday, December 14 and Wednesday, January 1.