CROWDS lined the platforms at a seaside railway station as a historical re-enactment left on the last leg of its journey.

The Winton Train, re-enacting eight train journeys in 1939 that saved 669 Jewish children from Nazi persecution, left Harwich International Railway Station at 9.12am this morning for London Liverpool Street.

Descendents and 20 children originally saved by Nicholas Winton, the brainchild behind the journeys, boarded the train in Prague on September 1 to celebrate 70 years since the historic event.

They will be met by Mr Winton, celebrating his 100th birthday today, when they arrive at London Liverpool Street later today.

See Monday's Gazette for the full story.