Chug into small world for big fun

The annual mini steam train festival will take place on March 9 at the Featherston RSA and town oval.

Visitors will be able to ride the rail on miniature trains, visit the model trains and learn how to make their own model railway, from 10am to 4pm.

The festival attracted 2000 people last year and festival organiser Roz Harding said she hoped for around 3000 this year.

Miniature steam trains, replicas of a Welsh Slate Mine Engine, Dolgoch and Brynglas from Wellington will be giving rides.

Mini Fell will also be taking passengers. The small machine is a replica of the famous H199 Fell Engine used on the Rimutaka Incline.

Fairley Steam Locomotive from Wellington will be there, a replica of an engine made in Bristol in the 1880s.

The Fairley was assigned to the Wellington-Summit and in later years was used in Wairarapa.

Visitors will be able to enjoy street stalls and the large variety of food available.

Live music, a medieval tournament and a clown will also entertain guests.

Rides on the miniature trains cost $2 and stalls are available to hire for $20.

All proceeds go towards the Cross Creek Railway Society for the maintenance of tracks and trains.