IT'S full steam ahead for the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway as it embarks on a packed programme of activities.
The Easter Express is now running daily on the five-mile line until April 21.
And a diesel gala will be taking place in June.
Bosses of the world-famous heritage line are reflecting on the success of the annual steam gala, held across a weekend.
The event, which saw a dozen steam locomotives in action, attracted more than 4,000 visitors – from family groups to steam enthusiasts.
And over 120 volunteers took part daily, carrying out a wide range of tasks.
The Keighley & Worth Valley Railway has been operating since 1968, six years after the former branch line had closed.
Noel Hartley, the railway's operating and business manager, says: "I am very proud of what has been achieved, particularly how we can create a journey back in time where – as a customer – you are completely immersed in a world that just does not exist anymore in everyday life.
"To continue to bring this world to life is really important, to give some balance to what is on offer in the leisure and tourism industry but also to provide opportunities for people to be involved in – and experience – how railways changed the world 200 years ago."
The steam gala featured a line up of historic locomotives, including the Class 8F freight locomotive No 48305 and the Class 3F Jinty shunter No 16440, both restored by the Great Central Railway in Loughborough.
Industrial locomotives such as Sentinel No 7832 Ann and Avonside locomotive Dora were also in operation. For Dora, her visit marked a return to the Keighley & Worth Valley line after a brief stay in the 1960s.
Oakworth Station – well known for its role in the classic 1970 movie version of The Railway Children and the more recent sequel – was a hub of activity, offering wood-fired pizza and showcasing the operation of the historic level crossing gates.
Passengers could enjoy on-train bars serving hand-pulled real ale.
At Haworth yard, visitors were able to watch locomotive preparations and shunting operations, and there were freight demonstrations.
Mr Hartley adds: "The gala's success underscores the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway's commitment to preserving and celebrating railway heritage."
For full details of forthcoming events on the railway, and to make bookings, go to kwvr.co.uk or call 01535 645214.
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