Dreamland's Scenic Railway has reopened and people dressed as Father Christmas are riding free.

The park's main attraction closed almost six-months-ago after the ride broke down.

But the announcement came earlier this week that the attraction will be back up and running after a replacement part was fitted and tested.

The delay, which affected trade over most of the summer season, has been blamed on busy manufactures who were tasked with making the part.

Head of technical services, Ian Hoole, said: "We are delighted to see the Scenic Railway re-open and taking passengers once more.

"We are now confident that this will allow the ride to work smoothly and be consistently available for our guests to enjoy" - Ian Hoole, head of technical services

"We are aware the wait has been disappointing for guests and so much longer than we would have hoped.

"However, we are confident we made the right choice in waiting for the UK’s leading rope making and splicing companies to be available to make and fit a bespoke, high-quality rope.

"We are now confident that this will allow the ride to work smoothly and be consistently available for our guests to enjoy."

To ride free all you have to do is go along dressed in full Father Christmas gear including hat, jacket, trousers and beard.

People are expected to flock to the park in Margate to be one of the first back on the ride.

Dreamland's Frosted Fairground is open every day from Saturday until January 2, with the exception of Christmas Day.