The future of a popular miniature railway line is no longer in doubt as it has been taken over by new management following the retirement of the previous owners.

The Watford Miniature Railway, which runs in Cassiobury Park, has been bought by Southern Miniature Railways Ltd - a company which specialises in engineering work for and operation of the small trains.

First opened in 1959, the railway has been a “much-loved” part of a family day out in Cassiobury Park for six decades.

However, after nearly forty years in their ownership the previous operator was planning to retire this year and there were fears that the railway would be closed at the end of the summer.

Since being taken over, trains will now be running every day throughout the summer holidays between 11am and 5pm.

There are also plans to improve and upgrade the railway - including reintroducing steam locomotives and running special themed events.

Southern Miniature Railways owner and director Charles O’Mahoney said: “Childhood visits to see my grandparents in Watford were never complete without a trip to Cassiobury Park and a ride on the miniature railway - in fact I had my first train ride there at a few months old.

“It is therefore really pleasing to be able to keep this much-loved attraction running, and save it for future generations to enjoy.

“We have ideas for what we would like to do to improve the railway, and have already received several fantastic suggestions from members of the public. However, I’d love to hear more from the public - so if you have any ideas for things we could do on the railway please let us know.”

Further details of the railway and opening times can be found at watfordrailway.co.uk, or by following the Watford Miniature Railway on Facebook or Twitter.