Mince pie train marks the end of an era

Father Christmas

This Sunday (7 December) the popular Christmas 'Mince Pie Special' train will leave Rochdale for the last time.

Father Christmas has boarded the train every year, handing out mince pies to all passengers, but this Christmas marks the end of the line for the mince pie train as the Oldham loop line is to close in October next year.

The train is hosted by the Save The Oldham Rochdale and Manchester line group (STORM) in partnership with Northern Rail. STORM chairman and founder member Richard Greenwood said: "STORM wish to thank Northern Rail for all their assistance in the event which is the last one with the rail line closing on 3 October 2009 for conversion to Metrolink services.

"STORM has successfully campaigned for over 25 years to keep the Oldham loop line open and hope to mark the closure with special trains throughout 2009."

The special train, with Santa on board, will leave Rochdale at 13.23, travelling around the Oldham loop and calling at all stations to Manchester Victoria.

Music will be provided on board by the North Chadderton School brass band with seasonal mince pies for all and goody bags for children given out by Father Christmas.

The special will return, departing Manchester Victoria at 16.35.

The services are timetabled so normal Sunday fares will apply.