A YOUNG author with an insatiable interest in the First World War took inspiration from the region’s railway heritage when writing his first book.

In The North Eastern Railway in the First World War, first-time author Rob Langham tells the story of the men and women who worked on the railway throughout the conflict.

The book, which was published to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the First World War, covers all aspects of life on the railway, shedding light on the locomotives, rolling stock, motor vehicles and even the horses and police dogs.

Mr Langham, from Hampshire, carried out the majority of his research in the region and was a frequent visitor to Darlington Railway Centre and Museum, the National Railway Museum in York and Locomotion, the National Railway Museum at Shildon in County Durham.

And this weekend, the 25-year-old returned to Locomotion to officially launch the book and showcase his collection North Eastern Railway and First World War memorabilia.

Mr Langham said it had been a proud moment when he saw his book on sale in the museum shop.

“I have had such a great response from the people in the North-East and it fantastic to come back to Locomotion to launch the book,” he said.

“I have always been interested in the First World War and it has been fascinating finding out about the role the men and women of the North Eastern Railway played and how important it was.”

The book is also available from amazon.co.uk