A POOLE charity is on track to break a record after raising more than £5,000 from a summer gala held by Luscombe Valley Railway.

Richard and Connie Knott open their steam collection to the public four times a year in aid of charity and this year nominated Lewis-Manning Hospice to receive the funds.

The last time the charity benefited was 2010 years ago, when the total raised from the railway was £10,000. This year, more than £7,000 has already been raised from just two openings, including £5,298 last weekend.

The Knott’s steam-driven vehicles include a passenger-carrying five inch gauge railway, a traction engine, a lorry, a full-sized car and a 26ft launch.

The railway in Lilliput will be opening again for its autumn run from 11amto 4pm on September 7 and 8. Entry is by donation.

Elizabeth Purcell, Lewis-Manning Hospice chief executive, said: “Richard and Connie Knott have very generously supported Lewis-Manning Hospice in the past and we are extremely grateful to them for choosing us again.

“The Luscombe Valley Railway is loved by everyone and we are delighted, not only to receive valuable funds for the hospice but also to be associated with such wonderful events. Thank you to everyone who attended.”