The popular Groudle Glen Santa trains departed for the ’north pole’ over the weekend.

Kids got the chance to meet Father Christmas after a gentle trip through the picturesque glen, courtesy of the little steam engine ’Sea Lion’ and sister engine ’Brown Bear’.

The tiny railway, which is run by a dedicated team of volunteers and enthusiasts is celebrating its 125 anniversary this year.

Alex Brindley, from the Groudle Glen Railway, said: ’Every year we seek to improve the experience in different ways with enhanced refreshments, new decorations and props this year, even down to new compostable ’elf’ cups for refreshments.

’The station itself has been undergoing a renovation for the 125th year with new platform and completely new trackwork funded by the Scheinberg family and the Manx Lottery Trust.’

l The GGR will also be running its annual mince pie train service throughout Boxing Day.

Tickets are available to book online at www.ggr.org.uk