SUMMER is just about still here – but that doesn't mean it's too early to prepare for Christmas.

The Wensleydale Railway is already getting steamed up for the festive season – and has already opened bookings for its popular Santa Specials.

The trains will start operating in early December when Father Christmas, fresh from the North Pole, will be spreading some Yuletide cheer to thousands of young fans.

And this year the Specials have been buoyed by a donation of £1,500 from Mulberry Homes Yorkshire, which is building homes just a few hundred yards from the Leeming Bar station.

The money is being used for the marketing of the operation and, for the first time, it will also enable the railway to put on an extra special Santa train for children in social care.

Railway spokesman Emma Ryder said: “The Santa Special has always been very popular but this year we are planning to make it the best ever.

“We have listened to the feedback of customers and as a result of this we have made a number of changes, including introducing online bookings, opening bookings earlier than normal, reintroducing services from Leyburn, providing presents for the adults and offering fruit punch as an alternative to mulled wine.”

She added: “The money from Mulberry will prove invaluable because it means we can produce leaflets promoting the Santa Special and put on a dedicated train for children in social care, which will be fantastic.”

The Santa Special trains will operate from Leeming Bar on December 6, 12, 19, 20, 22, 23 and 24. They will also operate from Leyburn on December 5 and 13.

To book online visit wensleydalerail.com/santa-special-trains-december-2015