LISBURN Railway Station will play host to a film star next Sunday (December 30) when she makes a brief stop in the city on her way from Belfast to Dublin.

This particular doyenne of the silver screen must be the envy of many women because she has played opposite none other than former 007 Sean Connery as well as today's Irish screen heartthrobs Cillian Murphy and Padraic Delaney.

Its unlikely, however, even Mr. Connery would consider dating a lady of her advanced years - she's 128 - although like many men he's probably cast her an admiring glance in the past.

The star in question is none other than Locomotive Number 186 which will haul a Railway Preservation Society of Ireland (RPSI) steam special to Dublin.

Despite her great age she is Lighting tit and took her very own Oscar in 2004 when the Society received the John Colley Award marking hei restoration and return to mainline operation.

The locomotive figured prominently in 'The First Great Train Robbery' which also featured Connery and the more recent film 'The Wind that Shakes the Barley' in which Murphy and Delaney took the Lead roles.

The train back from Dublin will be hauled by Locomotive Number Four - a mere child at the age of just 60.

Both engines have been lovingly restored by the Society and will provide steam heat for the carriages.

Complimentary mince pies and a cup of mulled wine for all passengers will provide some extra warmth.

Mervyn Darragh of the RPSI said: "Our stop at Lisburn will take the city back to an era of romance and excitement.

"Passengers can look forward to travelling in restored carriages, the sound of the whistle and the smell of the steam - and the mulled wine - not to mention some of the finest views and seascapes in Ireland on their journey."

The train allows people to enjoy two hours in Dublin before the return trip. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are available from: The Belfast Welcome Centre, Donegal] Place, Belfast ,Tel 90246609) and online from www.steamtrainsireland.com.