SWANAGE Railway is celebrating a record-breaking year, which saw its trains carry 216,267 passengers.

Figures also show 2014’s festive ‘Santa Special’ steam trains smashed all previous records, by carrying 9,205 passengers on the restored heritage line.

Swanage railway general manager Richard Jones said: “The carrying of a record-breaking number of passengers on our steam and diesel trains during 2014 is a fantastic achievement. It is tribute to our dedicated teams of staff – both volunteer and paid.

“Everyone has worked incredibly hard throughout the year to deliver the success of passenger numbers, increasing by 2.5 per cent on the 2103 figure of 210,984, by promoting Swanage Railway, welcoming our visitors and helping to give our passengers a really enjoyable day out.”

In 2013 the Santa Special trains, running between November and Christmas Eve, carried 8,631 people.

Mr Jones said the railway’s success throughout 2014 represented a lot of hard work by everyone connected to the organisation.

He added: “Having been rebuilt from nothing since 1976, after being controversially closed and demolished by British Rail, the Swanage Railway contributes some £14 million to the Purbeck economy.

“The Swanage Railway is far more than a trip on a heritage train behind an historic steam locomotive. It is the best car-free way of visiting Corfe Castle, Harman’s Cross and Swanage and having a really good day out.

“We are always looking for more volunteers to join in our continued success and have a great time while also helping to run a unique and friendly heritage railway set in beautiful Purbeck countryside. Full training is given.”

To find out more about volunteering email volunteer@swanagerailwaytrust.org.uk.

Alternatively, contact Swanage Railway volunteer coordinator Mike Whitwam on 01929 475 212.