Parents, this one's for you – the East Somerset Railway is offering free train rides for kids over Somerset Day weekend, and there's no catch.

On Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 May, children travel for nothing at the popular Cranmore attraction, either by booking ahead online or just turning up on the day. It's part of a county-wide celebration, and the ESR is going all out with family entertainment, games and a proper showcase of Somerset's best.

There'll be local food and drink galore – the Station Café is stocking up on Wookey Hole Aged Cheddar, Lievito Bakery bread, Griffiths butchers' produce, and fresh butter, milk and eggs from Somerset suppliers. Harry's Somerset Cider will be on sale in the shop for the grown-ups too.

A spokesperson said: "We're proud to be part of the Somerset Day celebrations and look forward to welcoming families for a great value day out."

The East Somerset Railway is based at Cranmore Station near Shepton Mallet. And yes – there will be steam trains.

Somerset Day, held each year on 11 May, commemorates Alfred the Great's call to arms against Viking invaders and celebrates the spirit and strength of Somerset communities.

Nigel Muers-Raby, founder of Somerset Day, said: "This year's Somerset Day promises to be more exciting than ever, with a fantastic line-up of events that truly showcase the spirit of our county. Whether you're enjoying a picnic, soaking in the atmosphere at Rich's Cider Farm, or proudly flying the Somerset flag, we encourage everyone to get involved and celebrate all that makes Somerset special."

For more information and a full list of events, visit www.somersetday.com.

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