A luxury vintage steam train is all set to make its long-awaited debut journey in Essex - and will help raise cash for a new adult hospice.

The world-famous Belmond British Pullman, the sister train to the iconic Venice Simplon Orient Express, will be making a special journey to the county’s coast.

It is due to arrive on November 3 next year with all profits from the journey going towards the new Fair Havens Hospice, opposite Priory Park, Southend, which will care for seriously ill adults across the Southend and Castle Point boroughs.

The plan is for the train to depart from Southend Victoria and guests will enjoy a gala evening which begins with a champagne reception followed by a four-course gourmet dinner and wine.

During the evening guests will be entertained by a jazz band and singers. A limited number of tickets for next year’s ride are now available at £299 per person and available in bookings of two, four or entire carriages can be booked for up to 26 people.

For details, call Wendy Hogarth 01702 221660 or email whogarth@havenshospices.org.uk