THE ‘world’s first’ LED train has started taking passengers as part of a new festive experience.

The Steam Illuminations shows have begun on the Mid Hants Railway Watercress Line offering visitors the chance to see a ‘unique, world first, pixel mappable digital LED train’ between Alresford and Alton.

Created in partnership with Purple Lighting Ltd, it is a light show, on and in a steam train, consisting of 13,174 fully controllable colour mixing LED lights and LED wristbands.

The lights are programmed to perform a wonderful light show, consisting of different colours and flashing patterns.

Everyone is given an LED wristband to wear on the train to be part of the show and can take them home after the event.

Popular and traditional music is being played along with the lights to enhance the experience.

Speaking before the launch, general manager Simon Baggott said: “We are delighted to be bringing this unique event to the Watercress Line. It’s a wonderful experience the whole family can enjoy together and is sure to be an event to remember.”

A spokesperson for the Watercress Line added: “We are so excited to offer such a new experience to our visitors and hope we can provide some Christmas cheer for all the family especially during these unprecedented times.”

Journeys will take place between December 11 and 23, 27 and 31 and from January 1 to January 3.

The Mid Hants Railway Ltd, famously nicknamed ‘The Watercress Line’ in the early 20th century for its role in transporting the crop to London, is Hampshire’s only standard gauge heritage railway.