After a gap of two years, the ‘Football Special’ is to return to Oswestry Station on Sunday June 10.

The event, organised by Cambrian Heritage Railways and the Shropshire Reds, began in 2013 with local football clubs and charities taking part.

As well as football mascots and school choirs there have even been visits from the RAF Red Arrows and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

The event took a break in 2016 because of other events at the station, but with several people asking what had happened to it, the event has returned to this year’s programme by popular request.

Both serious football collectors and families are being catered for on the day.

A programme and memorabilia fair is being organised by Coastal Programmes of Prestatyn who already have a number of nationally known dealers interested.

The New Saints, F.C. Oswestry Town, AFC Telford United and Wrexham A.F.C. have confirmed their attendance and others are awaited.

If they can be raised from their close season hibernation, it is hoped that club mascots can return as well.

In a World Cup year there will be a Sticker Swap Shop sponsored by Stan’s Superstores for those looking to complete their collections.

The event, unique to Cambrian Heritage Railways, marks the close connection between the development of football in the 19th century with the building of the railway system. It allowed organised competitions such as the F.A. and Welsh Cup competitions to develop with both the Oswestry and Wrexham clubs being among the earliest to compete.

Steam trains will operate throughout the day from 11.00am. Refreshments and a real ale bar will be available and the event will also be raising funds for Hope House.

Anyone interested in obtaining further information should email footballspecial@yahoo.co.uk or telephone 07722439384.