FAMILIES and train enthusiasts enjoyed a day of rides on diesel trains as a railway museum brought back a popular event.

The East Anglian Railway Museum saw residents flood through the gates as it hosted its popular Diesel Day events throughout the February half term.

Visitors took to the railway as the sun shone over the museum, at Chappel and Wakes Colne Railway Station.

Halstead Gazette: Residents wait to board a train at the museumResidents wait to board a train at the museum (Image: Craig Greenslade)

Diesel Days have been a big hit with residents in the past and the sunny weather meant the latest crowd-pullers were no exception.

The family attraction let people of all ages witness dozens of diesel-powered trains, which have been lovingly restored by the museum.

Halstead Gazette: The final guests board a train ready to rideThe final guests board a train ready to ride (Image: Craig Greenslade)

A spokesman for the museum reflected on the event’s success over the week.

They said: “We held our diesel days over the February Half Term, and these rides were enjoyed by many families who came along and had rides on our vintage Class 101 DMU.

Halstead Gazette: A quick okay from a conductor to a driver before heading offA quick okay from a conductor to a driver before heading off (Image: Craig Greenslade)

“The visitors were also able to see the track work which is being undertaken outside of our Restoration Shed to connect our new Exhibition Hall to the Museum's track layout.

“We hope for the new displays to be available for visitors to see later this year.”

Halstead Gazette: Inside one of the trains during a journeyInside one of the trains during a journey (Image: Craig Greenslade)

The museum also has lots of exciting events coming up for the community to enjoy.

The spokesman said: "For 2023 we have a number of events coming up, including our popular winter beer festival in early March, Day out with Thomas, Father's Day with Steampunk Shenanigans, as well as all of our usual Steam and Diesel Days throughout the year.

Halstead Gazette: Families loved riding the variety of diesel trains on the dayFamilies loved riding the variety of diesel trains on the day (Image: Craig Greenslade)

“For a number of our events visitors can book in advance from our website for 5 per cent discount.

“Also new for this year we have our Puzzle Hunt game called DERAILED, can you find the clues and defuse the bomb? More details on our website.”

Halstead Gazette: Visitors were also able to see the track work being undertaken outside of the Restoration ShedVisitors were also able to see the track work being undertaken outside of the Restoration Shed (Image: N/A)

Halstead Gazette: The work will connect the new Exhibition Hall to the museum's track layoutThe work will connect the new Exhibition Hall to the museum's track layout (Image: N/A)

For more information on the museum or any upcoming events, visit earm.co.uk.