A group of schoolchildren with communication difficulties have been taken on a magical Santa train ride thanks to a cash boost from CALA Homes.

The Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway Association (C&PRR) was given £300 by the housebuilder, which paved the way for children from the Communication & Interaction Resource Base (C&IRB) at St Andrew’s Church of England Primary School, in Chinnor, to have a ride on the Santa train.

Joanne Turner, lead teacher of the C&IRB, said: “We can’t thank the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway and CALA Homes enough for the opportunity to enjoy a festive trip on the Santa train this Christmas.

“The children in the C&IRB have communication and interaction difficulties and so this is an enriching opportunity for them to enjoy together a fun, festive experience whilst having the opportunity for positive social interactions, developing independence and self-confidence.

Sharon Thind, marketing manager for CALA Homes (Chiltern), said: “The work that Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway Association does, is not only vital to preserving an important part of Oxfordshire’s history, but also a valuable resource for the local community which can be enjoyed by local residents, whatever their age.

“As a housebuilder that is keen to give back to the communities in which we build, we are thrilled to be able to provide this valuable funding to the C&PRR. Christmas is an exciting time for children, so we hope they really enjoy their visit to Santa – what better way to kick start the Christmas holidays!”

The heritage railway was part of the former Great Western Railway branch line between Watlington and Princes Risborough which closed to passengers in 1957.

Chinnor station was rebuilt in 1994 and limited services resumed before an extension of the line into Princes Risborough was completed last year.

The group now runs a full programme of services and events through the year, with the Santa train running in and out of the Princes Risborough station for the first time.