Full steam ahead for 2016 as world's oldest working railway reopens in Leeds

Middleton Railway, based at Moor Road, Hunslet, has opened its doors with a special space-themed Moon Dust and Meteorites exhibition in conjunction with Harrogate Astronomical Society.

The exhibition, which is running until Monday, is the first in a series of events to run alongside its regular steam and diesel train services this year.

Fare-paying families riding the railway this weekend will also get their hands on some free Easter chocolate.

Throughout April and May the railway, which is run by volunteers, will link up with the Friends of Middleton Park for guided walks and mining tales.

The railway will then host a model railway exhibition on June 18 and 19 before the Steam Punk fair on July 2 and 3 and the Victorian Gala Weekend on July 16 and 17.

Other events taking place at the railway this year will be a Diesel Gala, Model Mania weekend and the traditional mince pie and Santa special train services.

Middleton Railway first opened in 1758 and closes every winter for annual maintenance.

Visit middletonrailway.org.uk for a full schedule.