Worried rail chiefs banned a bid to bring steam power to Arlesey’s railway station for the first time ever last summer – the hot, dry conditions sparked fire fears and forced organisers of an excursion service to use a substitute diesel engine.

But it could be second time lucky when the Cathedrals Express sets off from Bedfordshire to York on Thursday, March 12.

The Steam Dreams train is set to be hauled by B1 locomotive 61306 Mayflower, which is making a return to the mainline after an absence of over 20 years.

Chairman Marcus Robertson said: “We are delighted to be making a second attempt to bring steam to Arlesey for the very first time since the station opened in 1988.

“It seems particularly fitting that Mayflower will be at the head of the train as its return to the mainline this year is another cause for celebration.

“We hope locals will enjoy our visit and that some will join us for what promises to be a fabulous day out.”

The Cathedrals Express will depart from Arlesey at 8.40am and arrive in York at 1.15pm.Passengers rejoin the train at 4.15pm and and should be back in Arlesey by 8.40pm.

Tickets are available in all four classes, ranging from £99 per person to £239 per person.

If you’d like to be on board, call 01483 209888 or visit www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk.