Rail passengers could be in for a fright this Hallowe’en when they join ghouls on board a ghost train to help raise vital funds for the Samaritans.
The spooky goings on will begin at stations on the Penistone line on November 2, when Penistone Line Partnership’s charter train rolls into town.
Calling at all stations between Barnsley to Huddersfield, passengers will then test their wits as they take a scenic but eery fun-filled trip with an Abba tribute band through the Yorkshire Dales to Carlisle.
Ale lovers will also be in their element thanks to a bar put on by Mallinsons and The Hand Drawn Monkey.
Organised to give a boost to the Huddersfield and Barnsley Samaritans and to the partnership, the journey will take place ahead of the usual festive events put on by the local community rail group each year.
Speaking about the event, director of Huddersfield Samaritans, Michael George, said: “I was delighted when the Penistone Line approached us to be joint recipients of the proceeds.
“We need to raise all our money locally and we rely on this kind of generosity.
“Samaritans is a valuable service for the community and as someone who grew up in Penistone I know how important the train link is to the people of this area as well.”
It is the latest event for the partnership, which run several music trains annually to promote the railway line and raise funds for their own work and other good causes.
Other events scheduled for arrival this year include special santa visits on trains on November 30, whilst the annual Christmas carol train will run to Silkstone Common, with carols being sung by Gledholt Male Voice Choir.
Chair of Penistone Line Partnership, Neil Bentley, said: “We are delighted to be raising funds for such a worthy cause and are pleased that the Settle and Carlisle Railway Development Company will be able to show their line off to us.
“It’s a real team effort with Northern Rail and Trans Pennine Express providing goodies for the children, Huddersfield Station Buffet who will sell teas and coffees and our own volunteers.”
Tickets cost £40 for adults and £20 for children, whilst family tickets are priced at £100 and can be bought from the Huddersfield Station Buffet or by ringing Janet Goldsmith on 01484 660560.
