TRAIN-lovers had a treat as South Devon Railway’s winter steam gala got underway.

People flocked to the Buckfastleigh base to take a peek at the trains from a bygone era.

Some impressive engines were on display including the GWR Prairie 2-6-2T No 5542.

A South Devon Railway spokesman said: ‘The weather was very cold, and with a forecast of snow too which sadly deterred some people from visiting us, but the first weekend was a success nevertheless.

‘Our visiting engines, especially the Beattie Well Tank, proved to be popular with visitors, enthusiasts and our own staff too.

‘The gala also went well during the week with a very busy Monday in some glorious sunshine, and a good number of family visitors on Tuesday too.

‘We are expecting the rest of the week to be popular as well, especially the weekend of the nine-day event.’

Steam fans will be able to catch a glimpse at some of the engines until Sunday.