It’s full steam ahead for plans to build a miniature railway on the site of a former pitch and putt course in St Neots.

The Riverside Miniature Railway Club was given the green light by Huntingdonshire District Council on November 4 to construct the family-friendly attraction in Riverside Park.

Ivan Hewlett, who started the club in April, and other members expressed their delight by breaking ground on site the following day.

“We are absolutely thrilled with the news,” said Mr Hewlett.

“Of course there is a lot to do in converting our piece of land before we can complete our dream, but the work has already begun on developing this project.”

The first stage of the development, which is likely to cost £20,000, will be a 300-metre long running track with a station, made from a shipping container.

The second stage of the project could see the line extended to 600 metres, with money coming from rides and donations.

Mr Hewlett told The Hunts Post he also hoped there would be a longer ride available, at a distance of 1.2 kilometres which would be called the Eynesbury Giant.

The railway will be run on a not-for-profit basis by a group of volunteers from the club and will offer rides for an initial fare of £1 to children and adults.

Along with the track and the station there will also be picnic tables and a workshop within the station for the club.

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