A LUXURY vintage train will be pulling into Colchester in aid of a hospice.

The famous Belmond British Pullman, the sister train to the iconic Venice Simplon Orient Express, will make the special journey through the Essex countryside next year.

It will be transporting guests as they enjoy a luxurious gala evening in aid of Little Havens Hospice and its J’s Hospice.

Both Little Havens and the J’s are the only services in Essex wholly dedicated to caring for children and young adults with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

The money raised through ticket sales will mean free specialist care is available in the home, in the community and at Little Havens.

The gala evening will start with a champagne reception followed by a four-course gourmet dinner before entertainment from jazz musicians and magicians.

Guests will travel in some of the more famous carriages that are steeped in prestigious history – Cygnus, Phoenix and Pegasus.

Cygnus was used in the Festival of Britain in 1951 and also provided Dustin Hoffman and Vanessa Redgrave the set for their 1979 film Agatha.

Phoenix was the favourite carriage of both the Queen and Queen Mother and was famously used for visiting heads of state, as was Pegasus which famously carried Winston Churchill’s coffin from London to Bladon as part of his funeral.

Louise Gloyne, head of major revenue at Little Havens and The J’s, said: “This really is a unique and exciting opportunity to ride aboard this historic train.

“It will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience to enjoy a fabulous gala event in the luxurious surrounds of the Belmond British Pullman, all whilst helping to raise vital funds for Little Havens and The J’s.”

The train will be in Colchester on July 11, 2020.

A limited number of tickets are now available at £299 per person.

They are available in bookings of two, four or entire carriages can be booked for up to 26 people.

Gift vouchers can also be purchased.

Contact Wendy Hogarth on 01702 221660 or whogarth@havenshospices.org.uk.