MORE than 3,000 people travelled on the Swanage Railway during the company's second Spring Steam Gala, it has been announced.

The event, held mid-April, saw more than 100 passenger trains operating over three days.

Highlights included the British Railways locomotive Britannia and Southern Railway No.925 Cheltenham.

Swanage Railway interim general manager Matt Green said: "Everyone was delighted that 3,101 passengers were carried on 102 trains during what was only our second ever Spring Steam Gala and an excellent event that drew in the crowds.

"It was an extremely successful event enjoyed by thousands of enthusiasts and visitors who were delighted to welcome Britannia to the Purbeck line - on her first operating scheduled services - and also Cheltenham which was on her first ever visit to the Swanage Railway.

"I would like to thank everyone who made the Spring Steam Gala such a success for their meticulous planning, professionalism and very hard work across three very busy but highly enjoyable days. There was a real buzz across the Swanage Railway."

Five coach trains operated between Norden Park & Ride, Corfe Castle, Harman's Cross, Herston Halt and Swanage during the gala.