On Sunday 9 December Santa will be travelling with Greater Anglia on the 11.06 and 13.06 departures from Southminster to Wickford and back. This is the ninth year that Santa has chosen to travel on the Crouch Valley line, leaving his sleigh behind, giving Rudolph a well-earned rest and opting for the convenience of the train.

There will be lots of festive fun on board including carol singing, a Christmas wishing tree, a name the Christmas fairy competition, plus face painting, bracelet making and activity packs. Fancy dress is the order of the day, with a prize for the best outfit.

The Santa train has been organised with the help of the Essex and South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership.

Lynda Stone, Essex & South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership Officer said: “We’re so pleased that Santa wants to travel with us once again this festive season, to join in the fun, book a ticket for the Santa train.”

Greater Anglia’s Area Customer Service Manager Martin Sills said: “We’re delighted to be hosting a special event train once again on the Crouch Valley line.  We look forward to welcoming the many families joining us for a fun, festive day-out.”

The Santa train is a ticket only event, all tickets must be booked in advance and all children must be accompanied by an adult. The festive activities planned for this special train will be particularly attractive to children aged under 10 years.