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Joyce and Roger Faris in the 1970s with the train.

There was outrage today after a family that has run one of Britain's first 'Noddy' land trains for 46 years were served with a notice to quit the service.

The much-loved novelty train that carries people to a remote beach was started in 1968 by the late Roger Faris, who hand-built the carriages himself.

Since his death 34 years ago his widow Joyce, 88, has operated the independent service for 364 days a year and runs it more as a hobby than a profitable business.

The little train has been used by generations of people and become a popular fixture at the Hengistbury Head beauty spot in Dorset.

Now after five decades of service, town hall officials have told Mrs Faris they will not be renewing their contract with her as they intend to operate their own train service.