The East Lancashire Railway is inviting nominations for five local heroes who deserve recognition and will be invited to attend the railway’s new and improved Santa Specials event later this month.

Being in the heart of the local community in Bury, the East Lancashire Railway wants to celebrate those who have made a difference within the community or have had an effect on peoples’ lives for the better. The Santa Specials have become an essential part of Christmas for many families in the North West, and this year it’s bigger and better than ever.

Five heroes and their families will be chosen to enjoy a free trip on a Santa Special for a very special Christmas day out. Their Christmas festivities will start by making their way through an extended winter wonderland at Bury Bolton Street Station. Waiting to meet them will old favourites like the elves, as well as new characters including a magical talking Christmas tree, Mrs. Claus, and the railway’s very own Ice Princess. There will also be a sing-along with a chorus of musical polar bears.

Once on board one of the railway’s unique and popular heritage steam trains, the festive fun will continue with an enchanting 80-minute round trip along the magical Irwell Valley from Bury to Rawtenstall station.

During their journey, the families will meet Christmas characters, including Santa himself who will be handing out gifts. A merry brass band will also be playing traditional Christmas favourites, with guests encouraged to sing along.

Adults will be treated to a mince pie and a festive tipple or soft drink, while children can enjoy chocolate, juice, and a brand-new East Lancashire Railway festive activity pack.

Anyone who knows of a local hero who deserves recognition or an extra special Christmas experience, should nominate someone using the online form at https://www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk/news/nominate-a-local-hero-for-an-early-christmas-present-at-the-elr/. However, get your nominations in quickly as entries close next Monday, 12th December.

Although the competition is not open to employees of the railway, volunteers for the railway can apply to be considered. The railway relies heavily on unpaid volunteers for maintaining and running its heritage trains, opening its stations, and hosting the events and experiences that the community loves.

Over 800 volunteers currently donate their free time mid-week or at weekends working in a huge variety of roles. Anyone who wishes to volunteer on the East Lancashire Railway can find out further information at eastlancsrailway.org.uk/support-us.

Mike Kelly, Chairman at East Lancashire Railway, comments: “It’s more important than ever to celebrate our local heroes who give back to the community and make a positive impact on people’s lives and we are thrilled to be able to give back to these people.

“The Santa Specials have become a staple in many families’ Christmas celebrations across the North West. The event wouldn’t be possible without the hard work, dedication and kindness of the railway’s volunteers so this event is the perfect opportunity to give back to other hard working, kind people who make a difference.

“If there’s someone in your life or your local community that has made a positive impact over the past year, whether it’s through the work that they do, the time they volunteer or any acts of kindness you think a light should be shone on then head over to our website and tell us why you think they deserve a magical day out with their families at the railway this Christmas.”