AN ICONIC train has returned to Barshaw Park - with dozens of people sharing their excitement. 

The first train ride of 2023 took place in the Paisley park on Saturday afternoon.

James McDonald, a member of the Paisley Society of Model Engineers, which runs the train voluntarily, said: "We were quite pleased with how many people turned up. We received a really positive response." 

Glasgow Times:

The train, which first began operating in 1973, will be running every Saturday until the end of September, from 1pm until 4.30pm (weather permitting). 

On Saturday, Provost Lorraine Cameron enjoyed a trip around the park. 

Ahead of the launch, the Paisley Society of Model Engineers announced the news on Facebook.

A post read: "We’re looking forward to reopening for our 2023 season in April. We’ll be running trains from 1pm until 4.30pm every Saturday (weather permitting!).

"Over the winter, we had to take the difficult decision to raise our fare to £1.50 to cover the increased costs of operating.

"This was not a decision taken lightly, we hope all our visitors, friends and supporters understand, and we hope to see you in the park soon."

More than 250 people shared the post, meanwhile, around 150 others commented. 

One person said: "Can’t wait to have a little shot again."

A second added: "Fantastic, been going on the train since I was a wean."

A third wrote: "This is a piece of my childhood!!"

And another commented: "Fantastic news. Be more than pleased to pay the £1.50 to keep it going. Looking forward to coming again. Choo choo."