CARE home residents took a trip down memory lane as they steamed off on a heritage engine.

The sightseers from Lavender Hills in Ramsbottom enjoyed miles of stunning scenery journeying by train between Bury and Rawtenstall.

Memories from the Second World War and years gone by flooded back to those making the excursion as they passed through many areas they had played in as children.

They were joined of their travels by a ukelele player who got everyone singing along with tunes from the era, including Pack Up Your Troubles in Your Old Kit-Bag, and Smile, Smile, Smile; Daisy Daisy and many more.

The singing did not stop as the residents enjoyed servings of sandwiches, cream scones and tea along the way.

One resident also almost got to check off another of her bucket list adventures.

Mary Bell, who will very soon turn 101-years-old, was invited to drive the train, however, unfortunately she was unable to mount the steps to the cab.

Last year Mrs Bell flew a plane to mark her 100th birthday and has no plans to slow down.

She said: “I enjoyed singing the songs, the scones and the driver said I could drive the train if I wanted but I couldn’t get up the step.”

Her daughter, Aileen Brennan, added: “I thought it was brilliant, very well organised and the ukulele player was brilliant, we all enjoyed it very much.”

The train ride was organised by Lavender Hills' activities team Nickie Brooks and Gaynor Hall, who last year won Activities Coordinators of the year 2018 at the Great British Care Awards.

Among the amazing events organised by the pair and their team was a resplendent 1940s themed party for residents Margaret and Bill Jones's diamond wedding anniversary.

They have also arranged for the care home to be visited by wild animals including skunks, meerkats and raccoons; and recently held a Mad Hatter's Tea Party.