The East Somerset Railway in Cranmore will be welcoming Santa again this year - and offering its Santa Special train rides.

Santa will be operating a little differently due to the Covid-19 restrictions, and will be setting up home in his grotto on the platform of the North Pole Station where the festive team are able to maintain social distancing.

You will have a 40-minute ride on the Santa Special train first, then cross the line to the North Pole Station where you can visit Santa and receive a gift (if you have been good, of course).

When making your booking, you will be asked to specify the gender and age of each child so that Santa can choose presents accordingly.

If you have a little girl who would prefer a "boy's toy" - or visa versa - reflect this in your gender choice and also consider the appropriate age choice to suit the recipients.

If you are bringing an infant (under the age of one) the railway does not expect them to need their own seat on the train, so choose the 'Adult and Infant' ticket option. They will still receive a present from Santa.

There will be a Goody Bag for every child to take onto the train which will contain colouring sheets, crayons and a family Santa quiz sheet. Refreshments will be served including mulled wine and mince pies.

The Santa Special will be sanitised by Santa's Elves in between journeys and they will be ensuring that distancing is maintained.

Family groups will be seated together and distanced from other groups - masks must be worn on the train as per government instructions for public transport.

Due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, you will be unable to book more than six spaces.

Prices are from £15 to £19 per person and the Santa Special dates for 2020 are:

December 5

December 12

December 19

December 22

Christmas Eve