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Almost 400 presents were distributed to Whitehead, Eden and Ballycarry primary schools plus Whitehead Storehouse, the coastal town’s foodbank.

In line with public health regulations, the museum was unable to host its annual Halloween steam train, the ‘Broomstick Belle’.

The popular event would usually run mainline, picking up passengers at Belfast Lanyon Place and taking the scenic journey along the coast to Whitehead with a spooky witch onboard handing out goody bags to families.

Ballycarry Prirmary School pupils with their early Halloween treats.

Not wanting the children to miss out, staff at the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland museum thought it best to distribute the presents in the local area.

Lisa Adair, museum manager, said: “Even in these uncertain and unprecedented times it’s important to spread as much joy as possible! It would be a real shame for the presents to go to waste for another year.”

Miss Forsythe, from the administration office at Ballycarry Primary School, posted on Facebook: “We would like to thank the Whitehead Railway Museum for their very generous donation of Halloween goody bags for our boys and girls.

“What a lovely gesture to end a very troubling week. We wish everyone from the school and the local community to stay safe and well in the worrying weeks ahead.”

Ballycarry pupils, Finn, Logan and Erin McAteer, with their surprises.

Whitehead Railway Museum is temporarily closed and plans to reopen when government advises it is safe to do so. To be kept up to date with its openings and offers, visit the museum’s Facebook page, Instagram or Twitter @WhiteheadRailwayMuseum

Read a previous steam train story here

Read Carrickfergus Castle closed story here

Eileen from Whitehead Storehouse with goody bags from the Railway Museum.

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Hundreds of Halloween treats redistributed after Whitehead steam train hits the Covid-restricted buffers