The steam train illuminated for Christmas

Steam Illuminations runs during the festive period

A sound and light show that takes place on, inside, and around a steam train is back for another year.

Steam Illuminations travels between Alresford and Alton on The Watercress Line in Hampshire, and uses 14,000 individual LED lights as part of its kaleidoscopic show.

Creative director Simon Horn, who has previously designed light shows for pop concerts, said he began working on the festive extravaganza in July.

"I look forward to it every year, it really is a dream come true," he told the BBC.

A man is placing LED lights along the side of a train carriage in a workshop.
The steam train is adorned with 14,000 individual LED lights inside and out

The show uses colourful lights in flashing patterns, also via LED wristbands, along with neon coloured views of the scenery outside.

Josh Payne, a volunteer who first came to the line as a visitor in 2021, said: "I loved it so much I thought I'd email the guys here and ask if I could come and help out.

"It's my two favourite things - steam trains, and lights and electronics."

Steam Illuminations runs until 4 January.

Steam Illuminations An aerial view of the train travelling through the countryside at night. Steam puffs out of the train, which is adorned by red lights on its side.Steam Illuminations
The train travels between Alresford and Alton on The Watercress Line
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