RAILWAY buffs are expected to turn out in force to witness what could be the last heritage train on the Harrogate to York line.

Tickets are available for the landmark journey which will wind its way from Leeds to Edinburgh, via Harrogate, Knaresborough and York.

En route it will cross the picturesque Nidd Viaduct, and travel at speeds of up to 95mph as it joins the east coast main line.

It is believed that next Saturday's journey will be the last of its kind because heritage coaches will not be allowed on to the rail network after December, and the traditional 1960s British-built Brush Class 47 diesel locomotives, one of which will be hauling the service, are to be scrapped. The inside of the carriages are to get a special touch for the event, with specially-commissioned embroidered coverings for the seats.

Spokesman Nick Harvey said: "With the classic heritage Mark-1 coaches being in their last year of mainline use we have returned antimacassars to the seat backs.

"Traditionally they have only been provided in first- class accommodation and this will be the first time a whole mixed charter train has been provided with linen antimacassars."

Mr Harvey said that although it will take half a day to put them on the seat backs and the other half of the day to lay out the travel information and posters, the effect would be worth it.

The train leaves Leeds at 6.20am, Harrogate at 6.59am, Starbeck at 7.05am, Cattal at 7.22am, and York at 7.55am.

It arrives in Edinburgh at 10.59am and will pull into York on its return journey at 9.14pm.

For further details contact Green Express Railtours on 01484 422920.