Catch The Santa Special!

The volunteer-run Royal Deeside Railway will have a VIP passenger

THERE’S a signal flashing on the Royal Deeside Railway, and it’s green for go-go-go! There’s also a ho-ho-ho because Santa will be a special passenger on the train to give it a real festive feel.

Every weekend from November 24 – and daily from December 21 to Christmas Eve – he’ll be on the train with a sackful of goodies for good little boys and girls.

Adults will receive a hot mince pie, tea or coffee and might even be persuaded to join in the festive singing!

The train runs on the restored 1.6km (one-mile) stretch of the old Deeside railway from Milton of Crathes towards Banchory.

The Royal Deeside Railway was formed in 1996 with the intention of reclaiming part of the former branch line from Aberdeen to Ballater, which closed in 1966.

Run entirely by volunteers, the railway is one of Deeside’s most popular tourist attractions. It becomes even more popular when Santa swaps his sleigh for a steam train.

The trains run from Milton of Crathes five times each day so book your seats now! Visit www.deesiderailway.co.uk for more details.

The history of the service goes back to 1845 when a line from Aberdeen to Banchory was suggested.

However it wasn’t until September 1853 that the service began, taking about an hour to travel along the 26km (16-mile) distance.

The service was often used by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. However, journeys took longer as the Queen didn’t like high speeds.