IT is full steam ahead for the East Lancashire Railway, which has seen record-breaking sales after lockdown restrictions were lifted last year.

Visitors could not wait to get back on board the popular tourist trains, with a record number of visitors booking for the Ghost Train at Halloween and more than 43,000 travelling on the Santa Specials, which is the heritage railway’s most important source of income of the year.

Bosses at ELR said the support over the past year has been crucial and pivotal in safeguarding the railway’s future so it can continue to be enjoyed by families, friends and train enthusiasts in the future.

Mike Kelly, ELR’s chairman paid tribute to staff, volunteers and guests for helping the railway to successfully recover from the pandemic.

Mr Kelly said: “This outstanding performance from so many dedicated staff and volunteers comes after the most challenging period in the history of the ELR, as the pandemic left the railway fighting for financial survival.

“We now have a great springboard into 2022 as we plan to bring back a full year of unique ELR events and services.

“As we continue to recover from the impact of the pandemic, it has been wonderful to see so many people enjoying days out on the railway and attending our events and experiences.

“Without our guests and our team of dedicated volunteers, we wouldn’t have been able to continue, so we’d like to thank them for all their support. Our gratitude is endless.”

Mr Kelly added: “Due to restrictions, we had to stay closed for large parts of 2020 and 2021 and, unfortunately, we had to cancel some of our most popular events, including our family favourite Santa Specials in December 2020.

“So, to see so many people join us for our events last year has been particularly special. We’re thrilled that, thanks to the support we’ve received, generations of people can enjoy a grand day out on the railway for years to come.”

The railway was able to keep its services running after it received vital government cash boosts during the pandemic.

For more information and to book events and experiences in 2022, visit: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk