ORGANISERS were left delighted when hundreds packed March Railway Station on Saturday to celebrate its 125th anniversary.

Friends of March Railway Station and Fenland District Council’s Street Pride group had worked tirelessly to arrange a whole host of activities to delight train enthusiasts and town residents alike.

The Christmas White Rose steam train arrived slightly later than scheduled at 8.40am before NE Cambs MP Steve Barclay and Councillor Alan Melton, leader of Fenland District Council, welcomed visitors.

Their speeches were followed by performances from March Brass 2000, displays along the platform and exhibitions and memorabilia displaying changes throughout the station’s history.

Adrian Sutterby, Friends of March Railway Station chairman, said: “I was very pleased with the turnout and the weather helped as it was milder than it has been.

“We’ve estimated that around 300-400 people came and we were all pleased with the numbers that visited.

“The train was running a little late on the day but there were no disappointments about that because more people got the chance to see it.

“Everybody was happy and pleased with the project and people said how well the day had gone. I heard no negative comments whatsoever.”

Children and adults enjoyed train rides along the platforms thanks to the Fenland Light Railway.

Refreshments and mince pies were also served before a prize draw raffled was held.

Mr Sutterby praised all volunteers for their hard work and congratulated police for their effective policing of the English Defence League gathering in March which caused no impact on the station’s celebrations.

It is unsure how much money was raised throughout the day for the Friends of March Railway Station but the group thanked all who donated and hope to renovate one or two rooms at the station for community use early next year.