East Lancashire Railway (ELR) is inviting five local heroes to attend its Santa Specials event this December.

Entries are open for people to vote for who they think deserves this special treat.

The heritage railway which runs through Bury wants to celebrate those who have made a difference within the community or impacted peoples lives for the better.

Five "heroes" will be selected to attend the railway’s renowned Santa Specials event for free with their families for a special Christmas day out.

The festive event is a popular part of Christmas for many families in the North West.

The chosen heroes and their families will start their Christmas festivities as they make their way through an extended winter wonderland at Bury Bolton Street Station where they will meet elves, a magical talking Christmas tree, Mrs Claus and ELR’s very own Ice Princess before having a singalong with a chorus of musical polar bears.

Once aboard the steam train, guests will enjoy an expanded enchanting voyage through the magical Irwell Valley during an approximately 80-minute round trip from Bury to Rawtenstall Station.

On board, the families will meet Christmas characters, including Santa, who will be handing out gifts while a brass band plays traditional Christmas favourites.

If you have a "local hero" that you believe deserves an extra special Christmas experience this December then you can explain why you think they deserve to win using the online form found here.

Entries close on Monday, December 12.

ELR chairman Mike Kelly said: “It’s more important than ever to celebrate our local heroes who give back to the community and make a positive impact on people's lives and we are thrilled to be able to give back to these people.

“The Santa Specials have become a staple in many families' Christmas celebrations across the North West.

“The event wouldn’t be possible without the hard work, dedication and kindness of the railway’s volunteers so this event is the perfect opportunity to give back to other hard working, kind people who make a difference.

“If there’s someone in your life or your local community that has made a positive impact over the past year, whether it's through the work that they do, the time they volunteer or any acts of kindness you think a light should be shone on then head over to our website and tell us why you think they deserve a magical day out with their families at the railway this Christmas.”