The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway enjoyed a record-breaking end to its 40th anniversary year.

Staff on the five-mile line had one of their busiest ever Christmas periods. The award-winning real-ale bar did record trade, and extra mince pies had to be drafted in to cope with demand from hungry passengers.

A full service of steam trains operated over the holidays, including Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

The carol service train - which shot to stardom nationally after being featured on the BBC's Songs of Praise - also drew unprecedented numbers, with over 400 people taking part.

Worshippers - together with a local choir, and accompanied by a brass band - sang carols at each station before enjoying a home made pie and pea supper.

K&WVR spokesman Trevor England said: "I think many people travelled on the railway over the holidays to help them unwind after Christmas.

"Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves, and it was a wonderful way to end the society's 40th year."

The railway is donating £500 from its carol train ticket sales to the Sue Ryder Cancer Care centre at Oxenhope.

And the bequest was boosted by Mark Croasdale, with a sponsored gunging at Haworth's Royal Oak pub.

Mark, 20, a volunteer guard on the K&WVR, said: "I suppose I was a bit reluctant at first, but I am delighted to have helped raise money for what is the railway's local charity while giving everyone a bit of a laugh."