LAKES enthusiasts for steam railways start a series of talks on October 4 organised by the Stephenson Locomotive Society.

Stephen Walker will look at the story behind the Embsay and Bolton Abbey steam railway from 7.30pm at the regular venue of the St John Ambulance Centre, off Sandes Avenue, Kendal. All are welcome.

On November 1 the speaker is railway author Clive Mojonnier with Living with Lizzie, the story of Princess Elizabeth from 1962 to the present day.

The locomotive, number 6201, was built at Crewe in 1933 and was withdrawn from service by British Railways at the Upperby depot, Carlisle, in October 1962.

Princess Elizabeth was preserved by the Butlins holiday camp company and is now looked after by the Princess Elizabeth Society.

A Christmas social event is being held on December 6 and on January 3 there is a joint meeting with the Kendal Model Railway Club on methods used by railways to gain height.