Actor Richard E. Grant described his ride on a steam train as a "boyhood fantasy made real".

The star of Withnail And I, the Scarlet Pimpernel and Dracula spent a day filming at Kent & East Sussex railway.

Railway manager Graham Sivyer described the actor, author and director as a "charming guest" and said: "The railway is often used as a period location for film, television and photography. On this occasion a steam train provided the backdrop to a commentary by Mr Grant who was a charming guest and thoroughly enjoyed his experience on the footplate."

Mr Grant who lives in Richmond, London, later tweeted about his experience, describing it as a "boyhood fantasy made real".