CHILDREN'S TV favourite Thomas the Tank Engine is steaming into the East Lancashire Railway this weekend.

The family fun days will see miles of fun including rides behind Thomas, as well as unlimited rides on steam and diesel trains along the Irwell Valley track.

Little engineers will also be able to meet The Fat Controller, see performances from cheeky station sweepers Rusty and Dusty and watch re-enactments of classic Thomas stories.

The Day Out With Thomas events will be held on October 6 and 7, with The Fat Controller's opening ceremony taking place at 9.45am, and activities finishing at 4pm.

The fun days take place across the ELR line and visitors can start their day out from Bury, Ramsbottom, Heywood or Rawtenstall stations.

For more information or to book visit www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk