THE Friends of Poole Park (FPP) will be relaunching the Poole Park Miniature Railway next weekend.

An official opening bash is set for later in the year, but next Saturday will see a 'grand opening' ceremony with the first trains set to run shortly afterwards.

Earlier this month volunteers took delivery of their temporary engine, Princess Swee'Pea, which is on loan from Hastings Miniature Railway - the company currently renovating FPP's permanent engine.

Having recently won the tender from Borough of Poole (BOP) to operate the train for the next 30 years, the community charity has been working to refurbish the station, engine shed and track.

FPP chairman Michael Collins told the Daily Echo that the group has ambitious plans for the mini railway, including a 300-metre track extension, a new visitor centre and eventually a separate station.

Meanwhile, FPP trustee Caroline Slocock explained: "All the renovation works have been being carried out by volunteers who share enthusiasm about restoring the railway, which began operations in 1949 and has run continuously under private ownership up until November, 2016.

"The new railway will now operate as a community interest company that is run for the benefit of the community and the surpluses that it generates will be available for investment in community activities associated with Poole Park."

Trains have not operated on the mini railway since last year, following a carriage derailment and subsequent health and safety issues.

The FPP do want volunteers to step forward to help with their plans for the railway.

A spokesman said: "To realise our plan to reinstate a much loved family attraction and create new affordable activities and attractions for families to enjoy, we need your help.

"If you would like to become a volunteer, contribute to this worthwhile goal, enjoy Poole Park and have fun helping to operate the railway – we'd love to hear from you."

Either visit pooleparkrailway.org or visit the Friends of Poole Park facebook page for further details.