WORK on a unique East Lancashire tourist attraction is going full steam ahead.

The Thompson Park miniature railway will officially open on June 26 when the park celebrates its 75th birthday.

And although it already runs on Sundays and Bank Holidays until September, the full loop of the railway is not yet complete.

But by June visitors will be able to ride the seven-and-a-half inch gauge railway around the entire perimeter of the park.

Work started on the project -- the only one of its kind in East Lancashire -- in 2001 and the inner loop, platforms, turntable and sidings are all in place.

Volunteers have started laying track around the outside of the park and working on the 100ft railway bridge.

The Burnley and Pendle Miniature Railway Society was set up in 1990 by enthusiasts who enjoyed operating the railways. The group has run a portable seven-and-a-quarter gauge track at events for years but this will be their first permanent miniature railway.

Honorary secretary Don Kitson said: "Work is going really well on the second phase of the project, which is the outer loop of the railway, and we are on course to be finished and open in June.

"Everyone involved is very excited about the scheme because we have been working on it for a few years now and it has taken a lot of hard work.

"The opening day should be a great occasion. It's a day of great celebration for the park as a whole as well as the railway, so it should be really memorable.

"The railway will be a great facility for the area. There isn't another one like it in the whole of East Lancashire so it should be a real boost and a great attraction. We are already seeing more and more visitors at the weekends so hopefully even more will come when we are fully up and running."

Neil Williams, parks officer for Burnley Council, added: "This coming summer sees the 75th anniversary of Thompson Park and the council is committed to ensuring the park continues to thrive.

"We hope the extension of the miniature railway will be enjoyed for the next 75 years and that today's children will be able to take their own children and grandchildren."

To help with the project, contact Mr Kitson on 01282 603031.