GENERATIONS of train enthusiasts were wowed by the locomotives of days gone by at the Keighley & Worth Valley steam gala today.

Historic locomotives, including the iconic red Ivatt Tank train which was used to reopen the railway in 1968, rolled onto the tracks as part of the annual event.

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Operations manager Noel Hartley feels it continues to be a "special" celebration of vintage locomotives - nostalgic for those who remember steam trains in their youth and exciting for youngsters who witness the spectacular engines in action for the first time.

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Mr Hartley told the T&A: "It's important we preserve our history. It's something special.

"When the railway opened the railway started running enthusiast days. It would bring some kind of variety and be an interesting day.

"It really makes a memorable occasion for somebody. It creates that impression with children that makes them interested in steam trains.

"Places like here and living museums such as Beamish and all those old mills really brings history alive."

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Other trains included a Great West railway Prairie tank on loan from Didcot Railway Centre and a Bahamas Jubilee locomotive from the Bahamas Locomotive Society.

Huge crowds turned out throughout Saturday, with large gatherings of enthusiasts in evidence on the footbridge overlooking Haworth station, on the platform at Oxenhope, and at Keighley station.

The steam festival will continue this Sunday. For more information, email Steam Galaadmin@kwvr.co.uk, call 01535 645214 or go to kwvr.co.uk