HERCULE Poirot has been found aboard the Caerphilly Castle at the Steam Museum as he attempts to solve a murder mystery.

The fictional Belgian detective made famous by actor David Suchet in the television series of the same name is set to return to Swindon.

Poirot, or rather his lookalike actor Martin Gaisford, will be the star of the show as the Kemble Drive museum offers Christmas parties to firms for the first time this Christmas.

The museum is giving companies the chance to hire the museum for festive dinners from December 3 to 20. Employees will dine in the shadow of the Caerphilly Castle steam train and can enjoy a murder mystery evening in the company of the continental crimesolver or even a Monte Carlo style casino night.

The hall can be booked for groups of between 60 and 120 people.

Each event includes a three course silver service Christmas dinner with a bar and disco by GWR FM's Shaun Skinner.

Companies can then personalise their party with extras including a magician, coconut shy or giant Scalextric.

Steam's corporate events co-ordinator Ian Surtees said: "It is a very atmospheric evening, the lighting around the train is superb.

"We have already booked almost a third of the slots and for firms and there has been a lot of interest."

For more information on the Christmas party packages call Ian Surtees on 01793 466619 or email isurtees@swindon.gov.uk