LOCAL heroes are being offered a free ride on the world’s first preserved railway.

The Talyllyn Railway will be welcoming all rescue and emergency workers over the weekend of 17 and 18 February 2018.

The railway will be offering free travel to all serving and retired members of the armed forces, NHS staff, home helps and carers as well as firefighters, police, coastguards.

In addition, members of other rescue services will be entitled to free travel including first responders, lifeboat crews, cave, mountain and lowland rescue teams as well as blood bike volunteers.

A spokesperson for the railway said: “These people give so much to the community in their various capacities, both paid and voluntary, that it seems only right to give something back them. This is our way of showing our appreciation for their dedication and service.”

Free travel will be available to Saturday and Sunday, 17 and 18 February on production of valid ID from one of the qualifying organisations.