Santa trains to get BSL translator for first time

A heritage railway will have a British Sign Language interpreter for children on its Santa Special trains for the first time later this year.

The East Lancashire Railway (ELR) said the festive trains operate thanks to a team of more than 800 volunteers to make "a welcoming and magical experience for as many people as possible".

Three years ago it ran its first experience adapted for those with special educational needs, including toned down lighting, quiet carriages and less "hustle and bustle".

ELR chairman, Mike Kelly, said the railway wants "every visitor, whatever their additional needs or challenges" to experience "the wonder and excitement of Christmas".

The interpreter will be sponsored by Chorley-based Family Care, a foster care and special needs provide.

The BSL interpreter will travel on specific Santa Specials run by ELR between Rawtenstall and Bury from 29 November until Christmas Eve.

Interpreter Marie Marshall said she was "really looking forward" to being part of the team.

The ELR was closed to passengers by British Rail in 1972. It was rebuilt later that same decade, continuing into the 1980s, and reopened between Bury and Ramsbottom in 1987. It was later extended to Rawtenstall and Heywood.

The 12.5 mile (20km) heritage route runs through the scenic Irwell Valley, passing through a landscape dotted with industrial relics, factories, fields and cottages.

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