Little ones meet their TV favourites at Severn Valley Railway's family fun day

Two-year-old Mia-May met Peppa Pig's little brother George during a family fun weekend at the Severn Valley Railway's family fun day in Highley. And she couldn't wait to greet the TV character, giving him a big hug and kiss.

Cartoon porkers Peppa and George were the big draw for youngsters, while people were also able to enjoy train rides on the heritage line between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth. A number of family activities were also held over the two days.

Clare Gibbard, Severn Valley Railway's marketing and communications manager said the wwekend was staged following an identical inaugural event last year.

She said: "Children could get in the groove with a kids' disco, let off steam on the inflatable play areas or enjoy a range of family entertainment, including magic shows, fun arts and craft workshops and face painting.

"There was even a miniature railway to experience for a small extra charge."

Also open was the Engine House Visitor Centre, in Highley, which is home to a collection of reserve locomotives, a royal carriage, an array of interactive exhibits and a railway-themed children's outdoor play area.

Miss Gibbard said: "Last year's inaugural family fun weekends were hugely popular and this year's event was just as successful."

The Engine House will also host an event later this month to offer children the chance to find out more about railway engineering and learn how a steam locomotive works.

From May 24 the new visitor centre will have interactive exhibits and visuals from Christopher Vine's popular children's books about Peter, his Grandpa and the miniature steam railway they build and operate down on the farm.