HUNDREDS of eager train enthusiasts came from across the country to enjoy the Epping Ongar Railway's Diesel Gala over the weekend.
Essex's longest heritage railway's first ever celebration of all things diesel-powered was touted a great success, with visitors from as far afield as Durham and Yorkshire.
Another first for the weekend was a vintage bus service, which delivered passengers from Shenfield Station to the railway's doorstep.
Simon Hanney, general manager of Epping Ongar Railway, said: "It was a great turnout for our first Diesel Gala and it is great to see people coming from so far away.
"Despite the best attempts of the weather, our volunteers managed to get the Thumper all painted and ready for the weekend and everything went according to plan.
"This event was the first time we had run a heritage bus service from Shenfield Station.
"We had comments from people in Colchester, Ipswich and Felixstowe who wanted to come down.
"Shenfield Station is well situated for many people in that direction and the service was well used on the day.
"It is definitely something we will look at doing on a more regular basis."
The Diesel Gala weekend is one of many special events held on the railway, which runs heritage steam and diesel locomotives between North Weald and Ongar.
For more information, visit www.eorailway.co.uk
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