The Watercress Line's Spring Steam Gala, commencing April 26, will showcase three distinctive engines.

The LMS Jubilee Class 'Leander', no. 45690, will make her first Hampshire appearance on a preserved line courtesy of the Beet family and West Coast Railways.

Lambton Tank no. 29, courtesy of Lambton Trust and North Yorkshire Moors Railway, will also be in operation. Built in 1904, this is one of the UK's longest-working steam locomotives.

Furthermore, 'Manston', a 1947 class 'Battle of Britain', courtesy of Swanage Railway and Southern Locomotives Ltd, will be in action. There will be further locomotive displays along the 10-mile line, driver experiences, stalls at Ropley station and refreshments available in Alresford.

The Watercress Line’s CEO Rebecca Dalley said: "We are delighted to have these three special guest engines at our Spring Steam Gala.

"In addition to riding behind some wonderful locomotives along the beautiful South Downs National Park, visitors can explore railway exhibits and enjoy guided tours for a real insight into maintaining and running locomotives at The Watercress Line.

"Make sure you visit the impressive restoration projects, enjoy free guided tours of the Engineering Works at Ropley and don’t miss exciting Queen Mary brake van rides on the Goods Train."