A VICTORIAN-themed heritage day at Fourteen Locks Canal Centre was enjoyed by hundreds of people in Rogerstone, Newport, on Saturday, with a model steam train, boat rides and face-painting for children.

Liz Evans, who lives within walking distance of the centre, brought her two daughters, Oceania, nine, and Summer, five, while her neighbour, Gloria Freestone, brought along her granddaughter, five-year-old Amelia.

“We’ve had train rides, been on the trails, had a cup of tea and the children have had lollipops,” said Mrs Freestone. “We’ve had a good time.”

Centre manager Phil Hughes said last year they had around 1,000 visitors to the heritage day and this year has been the same.

“It’s been great, we’re supported so well, we’ve been so lucky,” he said. “The boat hasn’t stopped and neither has the train. Taylor Wimpey sponsored us by £550 and the WI sold all their cakes and donated the proceeds to us. The local councillors gave us money to buy the marquees and have also been very supportive.

“It all goes towards keeping the centre going and the restoration of the canal. Our funding will run out in March 2014 and after that we will have to be self-financed.”

The day was an opportunity for residents to enjoy the facilities beside the canal, and for charities to raise money and awareness.

The Newport branch of the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) had a stall selling bowls, calendars, badges and keyrings to raise funds for the charity.

Volunteer Chris Davies said: “There has been a steady stream of people.”