MORE than 200 romantics embarked on a four-hour journey into nostalgia at the weekend to enjoy a special Valentine's meal on the world famous Orient Express.

MORE than 200 romantics embarked on a four-hour journey into nostalgia at the weekend to enjoy a special Valentine's meal on the world famous Orient Express.

The British Pullman arrived at Ipswich Station to the sound of jazz played by The Lizards, who also entertained passengers during the trip on Saturday.

Among those who had booked – filling two carriages of the train - was a group of approximately 30 friends of Maurice Cordy-Ramsey, from Ipswich-based hair salon, Hairaisers.

Mr Cordy-Ramsey's party entered into the spirit of the evening with their roaring twenties outfits, complete with top hats, tails, canes, feather boas and long cigarette holders.

During the four-hour journey towards London and back guests were treated to a five-course dinner, with champagne, wine and liquers.

The East Anglian Daily Times Reader Travel Service is offering another special trip on the Orient Express on May 11.

The theme this time will be literary and the destination will be Oxford, where passengers will be able to visit Christ Church, long associated with children's literature from Alice in Wonderland to the recent Harry Potter film.

The trip includes a cream tea in the Great Hall at Christ Church and a three-course dinner with wine on the way back. To book telephone 0870 7466 966.