A SPECIAL excursion train will leave East Lancs on Saturday, November 9, for a trip via the famous Settle and Carlisle Railway to the Gateshead Metro Centre.

This will be the 35th annual rail outing organised by St James's Church, Blackburn, Day Trippers and everyone is welcome to follow in the footsteps of the 17,000 passengers who have already enjoyed one.

Departing from Preston, the train will call at Bamber Bridge, Cherry Tree, Blackburn and Clitheroe. Special coaches have been arranged to pick up passengers at Rose Grove, Accrington and Rishton stations and convey them to Blackburn to join the train.

The Metro Centre is one of Europe's largest shopping areas and with an expected five-hour stay there will be plenty of time for Christmas shopping.

Alternatively there is the chance to visit Newcastle where, in addition to more excellent shops, there is plenty to see, including. Britain's Building of the Year, the Gateshead Millennium Bridge.

All profits from the train outing will be donated to charity to add to the £83,000 already distributed to good causes.

Everyone will have reserved sets and a buffet service of light refreshments will be available. The fare is £30 adults and £15 children. Full details and booking forms are available from Ian Stocks on 01254 667803.