A new steam locomotive's Norfolk holiday has been extended due to its popularity over the summer. 

No. 6880 "Betton Grange" arrived at the North Norfolk Railway (NNR) in early August and it has just been announced that it will remain there until late November. 

The loco was completed earlier this year and it was the culmination of 30 years of work by a dedicated band of enthusiasts.

6880 at the head of a North Norfolk Railway train from Sheringham to Holt6880 at the head of a North Norfolk Railway train from Sheringham to Holt (Image: Bob Johnson)

The Great Western Railway originally built 80 "Grange" Class engines between 1936 and 1939, with the last one in use withdrawn from service in 1965. 

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It will haul a series of special trains this autumn, giving visitors more opportunities to travel behind the loco before it leaves the line.

It will work the Poppy Line, which runs between Sheringham and Holt, on October 22, 23 and 24 and then daily for half-term week from October 26 to November 3.

Hair-raising demonstrations from Mad Science will take place at Weybourne Station over the October half termHair-raising demonstrations from Mad Science will take place at Weybourne Station over the October half-term (Image: Mad Science)

This will include the HallowS.T.E.A.M event from October 30 to November 2, with science and technology demonstrations from Mad Science at Weybourne Station. 

The line’s smallest engine "Wissington", paired with a set of 100-year-old carriages, will work alongside "Betton Grange".

6880 is also scheduled to work two lunch specials on November 3 and 17, with passengers served a three-course meal.

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The illuminated Norfolk Lights Express, pictured in November 2023 The illuminated Norfolk Lights Express, pictured in November 2023 (Image: Dave Ballard)

The culmination of the extended visit will see "Betton Grange" hauling the line’s famous Norfolk Lights Express services on the evenings of November 15, 16 and 17.

Graham Hukins, NNR general manager, said: “We are delighted that "Betton Grange" will be staying in Norfolk for a few more weeks, giving more visitors the chance to ride behind this truly unique locomotive.

"She has proved extremely popular on our summer and autumn services and her presence will be a bonus for passengers on these special trains."

Book tickets at nnrailway.co.uk