Heritage rail travel operator The Railway Touring Company is running a series of steam rail day trips this autumn and the Surrey Comet and Wandsworth Borough News have a premier family ticket (worth £495) and a first-class family ticket (worth £320) to give away.

On Saturday, November 17, the 70 year-old 60019 Bittern (pictured) will haul The Southern Belle, departing from Victoria and East Croydon for Portsmouth.

The steam locomotive will travel down the Brighton line, turning off for Horsham and the pretty mid-Sussex route before joining the south-coast line, into Portsmouth.

The Christmas programme is as follows: l Nov 17 - The Southern Belle, Victoria/East Croydon to Portsmouth. A chance to see the famous HMS Victory, Mary Rose and HMS Warrior, take a trip up the Spinnaker Tower or see the naval fleet.

l Nov 24 - Bath & Bristol. Victoria/East Croydon to Bath. An afternoon exploring Bath's famous architecture and Roman Baths or enjoying Bristol's acclaimed museums.

l Dec 1 - The White Rose, London King's Cross to York.

l Dec 6 - Bath Christmas Market, Victoria/East Croydon/Dorking/Guildford to Bath & Bristol.

l Dec 15 - The Christmas White Rose, King's Cross to York. Santa Claus will join the train with presents for children and mulled wine with mince pies for adults.

l Dec 21 - The Canterbury Christmas Belle, Victoria/ East Croydon to Canterbury. Santa will join the train (see above).

Tickets range from standard adult at £74 (standard junior £41) to premier family at £495. Premier tickets include English breakfast, light lunch and a four-course dinner.

More information, and tickets, are available from The Railway Touring Company on 01553 661500 or at railwaytouring.co.uk