Steam train enthusiasts have a rare treat in store.

The Northern Belle will chugging through Kent this Saturday on a round-trip between Maidstone and Folkestone.

The luxury vintage train is making its first visit to Kent - to raise funds for Heart of Kent Hospice.

The 10-carriage train (seven dining cars, two kitchen cars and a brake car) will be drawn by a Black Five steam locomotive, Number 44781, originally built for the London Midland and Scottish Railway, which made its last service run on August 11, 1968.

The locomotive later enjoyed a moment of stardom when it was used in the 1969 film The Virgin Soldiers.

Seats on the train are already sold out, but steam enthusiasts will still be able catch a glimpse of the train as it passes through stations on route.

It leaves Maidstone East at 12.30pm and passes through Ashford International at 13.41pm, Canterbury West at 14.14pm, Sandwich at 14.46pm, Deal at 14.52, Dover Priory at 15.05, arriving at Folkestone West at 3.20pm.

After the return journey, it is due back in Maidstone East at 5pm.

On board the guests will be enjoying Champagne and luxury dining in the elegance of 1930s Pullman coaches.