Steam train celebration takes visitors back in time

Rail enthusiasts have been allowed onboard steam locomotives for the Legends of Steam event

A heritage railway has been hosting a gala recognising record-breaking steam trains to mark the 200th anniversary of the modern railway.

Visitors to East Lancashire Railway have been given the opportunity to ride up and down the 12-and-a-half-mile (20km) heritage railway line, which runs between Heywood and Bury in Greater Manchester and Rawtenstall in Lancashire, behind four "iconic" steam locomotives in the Legends of Steam event.

Railway chairman Mike Kelly said the trains were the "F1 icons" of their day and transformed long-distance travel across the UK in the 1930s, 40s and 50s.

He said it was a "privilege" to provide access to these express steam engines to thousands of rail enthusiasts.

The event has been held to mark the 200th anniversary of the modern railway

Mr Kelly added: "The locomotives have all been preserved so the next generation can enjoy what that huge heritage was to the United Kingdom."

Commercial manager Mark Hill said the event was attended by rail enthusiasts and people from many generations, as grandparents brought young children along.

"They are sharing their nostalgic trip back in time to ride behind these fantastic marvels of engineering," he said.

For both casual visitors and enthusiasts, climbing aboard one of the special locomotives is a unique experience.

"It's a living, breathing thing. With the steam and the smell, that's what draws so many people to them," one passenger said.