A UNIQUE Australian engine is to make its debut appearance at a children's charity day in Hereford on Sunday.

Honking, whistling and with flashing lights, a smart little yellow and black Australian Baldwin will make a grand entrance at Broomy Hill Miniature Railway, next to the Waterworks Museum, to a champagne and caviar reception.

Held in aid of Acorns Children's Hospice, supporters will learn the new loco is the only model of its kind to be built in the UK.

Charity

It cost the railway £3,400, raised in just six months last year. Member, Colin Davies spent more than 150 hours working on it in his garage and Brian Kempson fitted it with the American sound unit.

It will be joined by several other engines on the charity day, from 10am to 4pm, to raise funds for Acorns' new hospice for terminally-ill children in the three counties. There will also be stalls and refreshments.