NOSTALGIC sounds and smells of steam trains wafted across Kirton as one of the area's most popular annual events enjoyed a record-breaking day.

NOSTALGIC sounds and smells of steam trains wafted across Kirton as one of the county's most popular annual events enjoyed a record-breaking day.

Visitors of all ages queued for the rides on the trains as the event attracted hundreds of people to enjoy a warm and sunny summer's afternoon which raised more than £2,000 for the St Elizabeth Hospice in Ipswich.

Steam and electric trains were running on the Kirton Light Railway, which runs around the garden of stationmaster Fred Last's home at Falkenham Road, Kirton.

“It went very well indeed and I am really thrilled,” said Mr Last.

“I got permission to use the village hall car park and that was full and there were cars all the way down the road - so many people.

“We had queues the length of the garden waiting for rides on the trains but people were very reasonable and patient and just said they were enjoying the atmosphere and watching everything going on.

“We are still doing the finances but I am sure it has been a record day.”

As well as the trains giving rides, there were also static displays of all aspects of engineering, including a one-sixth scale model of a Sherman Tank Fred built himself.

The Station Buffet was also open with teas and coffees, and homemade cakes donated by people from the village.

“The ladies in the village were fantastic and I cannot thank them enough for all the cakes they made. We also ran a barbecue this year which a young couple did for me and that did very well, too,” said Mr Last.

Did you enjoy the day? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail EveningStarLetters@eveningstar.co.uk