History will be made in Southend this summer when two steam trains return to the town after more than 35 years.

The LTS Rail line between Shoebury and the City will play host to the special engines over the May Day bank holiday on May 2 and 3.

The two British Rail standard tank engines - used on the route before it was electrified in the early 1960s - will make two round trips each day.

On Sunday May 2, they will be chuffing up the main line via Upminster and Basildon.

On Bank Holiday Monday May 3, they will grace the original long LTS route via Grays and Tilbury.

The special trips are being organised by Staffordshire based company Past Time Rail in conjunction with Railtrack.

Director Andy Staite said: "We are not yet certain about the timings of the services or the fares, although we expect that the price will be about £25."

Mr Staite said there were several reasons why the LTS line had been chosen for this particular trip.

He said: "A lot of people in Southend and district have fond memories of commuting to London in the days of steam and this gives them a chance to remember the past.

"It is also an opportunity for us bring down to the area again two steam engines which were actually in use on the line before it was electrified."

Southend Council leader, Graham Longley, today spoke of his delight over the plans.

He said: "This really has to be welcomed. It is another attraction for the town, and an idea that we have looked at in the past.

"The thought of seeing a steam train go across the High Street bridge fills me with great pleasure."

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