RAIL fans flocked to the National Rail Museum over the weekend as admission charges were ditched.

Visitor numbers to the Leeman Road museum were up a massive 121 per cent, compared with the same weekend last year.

Many of Britain's museums are abolishing admission fees, allowing the country's heritage to be accessible to everyone.

Camilla Harrison, of the museum, said: "Compared with last year, visitor numbers were 80 per cent up on the Saturday and 210 per cent up on Sunday.

"This averages out to 121 per cent. Free entry has had a major impact. We are hoping it will continue and are delighted that access to the museum is available to all."

Updated: 12:29 Monday, December 03, 2001