The Bluebell Railway in Sussex is inviting visitors to meet famous video game character Sonic the Hedgehog™ next weekend (Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May).

The blue, fast-running hedgehog character will appear at various points on the weekend days, and will be available for fans to take photographs, say hello, and join in the fun.

Sonic’s appearances will be at the railway’s Sheffield Park Station, and meeting the hedgehog will be free of charge for anyone who has bought a rail travel ticket.

Sonic the Hedgehog was created by the Japanese game designers Yuji Naka and Naoto Ohshima, and has starred in a video game series named after him since 1991.

Sonic is also the mascot of the Japanese video game company Sega.

As well as Sonic’s visit, the award-winning Bluebell Railway has further plans for the upcoming half-term school holiday.

Enthusiasts will have the opportunity to take a nostalgic journey through the Sussex countryside, seated in a train hauled by one of the Bluebell Railway’s heritage steam locomotives.

More information about the Railway, its fleet of trains and its events is available from the Bluebell Railway website.

The Bluebell Railway operates steam trains along an eleven-mile (17.7 km) line which crosses the border between East Sussex and West Sussex in southern England.

Trains run between Sheffield Park and East Grinstead stations, stopping at intermediate stations at Horsted Keynes and Kingscote.

The Bluebell operated its first train on 7 August 1960, which was less than three years after British Rail closed the railway line from East Grinstead to Lewes. This made it the first preserved standard-gauge, steam-operated passenger railway in the world to run a public service.

Other events on the Bluebell Railway this year include murder mystery trains on various dates and a Giants of Steam Gala, which will take place in October.

“Relax and enjoy the charm of a bygone era while creating unforgettable family memories. Make the most of this incredible half-term adventure and plan your visit now.”

The Bluebell Railway