A SPECIAL mixed traction gala at the Embsay and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway on the Coronation May Bank Holiday weekend will mark the 25th anniversary of the extension of the railway.

Although passenger trains started running through to Bolton Abbey in the autumn of 1997, the official reopening of the line took place on Friday, May 1, 1998, with the late Sir William McAlpine, businessman, railway enthusiast and one time owner of Flying Scotsman, as the principal invited guest.

The volunteers and staff of the Yorkshire Dales Railway Museum Trust, the owner and operator of the Embsay and Bolton steam railway, have much to look forward to in the 25th anniversary year of the nearly five-mile railway.

Plans are well underway for the event on Sunday, May 7 and bank holiday Monday, May 8, which is expected to feature all available steam and diesel locomotives in action, including the unique and award-winning North Eastern Railway auto-car and trailer, a special timetable in operation on both days, the excellent Stately Trains’ vintage carriages and saloons in use, invited guests, a display of rolling stock and a special display of other items of stock.

Throughout the year, there will also be family orientated events, including an 'Alice in Wonderland' event at Easter, a vintage vehicle rally in June, and a beer festival in August.

Find out more at: www.ebar.org.uk.