MORE than 25 children and their families enjoyed a trip to see Santa on board the Polar Express at South Devon Railway. 

The youngsters, who are all being treated or supported by the Children Hospice South West, and their families were treated to the train trip thanks to Newton Abbot Rotarians. 

In previous years, Rotary Dartmoor Vale in conjunction with South Devon Railway organised free railway trips for different charities and disadvantaged children. 

It is estimated that over the years South Devon Railway has given free railway trips to 20,000 disadvantaged children.

This year, youngsters enjoyed the experience of joining the Polar Express in Buckfastleigh for a ride to the North Pole.

During the trip, they were treated to actors bringing the Christmas story to life, a jolly conductor and a special visit from Santa Claus himself. 

Before heading home, the children were given individual presents and advent calendars funded and provided by Rotary Newton Abbot. 

A Rotary spokesman said: ‘A huge thank you to South Devon Railway for providing a carriage free of charge so that children with life limiting conditions and their families experienced the magic of the Polar Express.’