ON December 13 there was a charity open day at the home of Lesley and Robert Hunt and private railway known as Titley Junction Station. Their Santa steam special, saw Father Christmas arrive by steam train pulled by Percy Peckett No. 1738. Santa arrived at Titley Junction Station to great cheers and much excitement by crowds of Herefordshire families. The Rev Brenda Jacobs of Lyonshall and the Arrowvale Group of parishes welcomed Santa and opened the festivities.

Santa was enthroned in his grotto as the children prepared to meet him. He was assisted by his elves from the Brownies and Girl Guides from Kington and Presteigne and members and volunteers from Lyonshall PCC and Titley PCC held a country village Christmas fair in a heated marquee supplied by Burgoynes Marqees from Lyonshall. Lots of Christmas cakes, mince pies and puddings supplied by the villagers from Lyonshall and Titley were sold along with holly wreaths, home made preserves, hand made jewellery and books from local author, Sam Lewellin.Titley village provided scrumptious hot and cold food and kept every one well fed and warm.

Percy Peckett the steam engine, assisted by his helper Margaret Anne a class three diesel locomotive gave train rides up and down the Arrow Valley alongside the River Arrow, all day. All in all a wonderful sunny and crisp winters day turned into a magical day for all involved.

Mr and Mrs Hunt wish to express their thanks to all those involved in creating such a very special day including Burgoynes of Lyonshall, Arrow Plant Hire, Mayglothling Waste and the friends and volunteers of the Kingfisher Line. Lyonshall and Titley parish churches will receive all the proceeds from this charity event to help their church funds.