ONE of Ayrshire's most historical attractions celebrated its 50th anniversary in style at the weekend.

Doon Valley Railway (DVR), operated by Ayrshire Railway Preservation Group (ARPG), based at Dunaskin near Patna, put on the event on Sunday, September29, to celebrate half-a-century of work.

Having launched back in 1974, various people have worked tirelessly over the years to keep the steam train world alive in Ayrshire.

Last year, the DVR team were priced out of buying the building they have rented from their landlord for a number of years.

Now, they are in the process of transferring years of history into a new building at the same site, with plans to expand in the future.

On Sunday, there was a celebration of the years of history by looking back on how things have changed, getting on board the steam locomotive, as well as having vintage cars and vehicles in attendance.

Currently, the team owns the train and platform that draws people from all over to the site, as well as two buildings which will be used as a storage building and visitor site.

Alex Wallace from DVR believes days like this are important for the group.

He said: "There's so much history here and people still have an appetite to come and see everything we have on display and ride on the train.

"That's why we've got plans to expand in the future.

"It hasn't been easy over the past few months with having to move buildings and get everything back into place, but there's a team working hard to make it a success."

A member of the DVR team added: "To help celebrate this iconic day in the ARPG’s / DVR’s history, it was a pleasure and honour to host various community groups and supporters of DVR who also came along to join in the celebration.

"The operation of DVR would not be possible if it wasn’t for the commitment provided by our volunteers and those on the board of directors.

"The charity is also owner and leasing various buildings of historic importance which we also protect and maintain so with a small volunteer force it has its challenges.

"However, ARPG/DVR have recruited more volunteers than ever before and there’s room for more."

More information can be found on the Doon Valley Railway Facebook page or website.