Toddlers aged two to five years old from Busy Bees nursery meet at the village hall in Ruswarp.

For the past nine years the group has taken part in the Barnardo’s Big Toddle and this year manager, Barbara Tate, planned a special train trip for the youngsters.

The children travelled on the Grosmont to Goathland steam train and then toddled from the station to Goathland play park and back again.

The party consisted of nursery children and staff as well as mums and dads.

Mrs Tate told the Gazette: “We raised about £400 on the day but over the years we have made almost £3,000 for Barnardo’s.

“What was special about this day is the fact the North Yorkshire Moors railway agreed to stop off at Ruswarp station especially for us.

“The train has not stopped here since 1965 and the children watch it go past the village hall every morning.

“It was a wonderful experience for the children.

“We had a brilliant day and lovely weather.

“They got the chance to watch some of the filming of Heartbeat and we finished off with ice creams in Grosmont.”

Marketing manager for the NYMR, Phil Bustard said: “We were delighted to be able to allow the playgroup to travel by steam.

“It’s actually the first occasion since the mid-1960s that a steam train has called at Ruswarp.

“We’re pleased we have been able to make this happen for this particular group.”