WHILE Helen of Troy’s face launched a thousand ships, Angela Dugdale’s name will stop a steam engine.

The Durham Locomotive Preservation Group have decided to rename the brake van they use at Locomotion, the National Railway Museum, in Shildon, County Durham, after the museum’s visitor services assistant.

The brake van, now called Angela, is one of two used on the tourist trips that run up and down the museum’s track.

Dave Foxton, chairman of the preservation group said: “We have an engine called Norwood so it seemed only right to give the brake van a name as well.

“We held a vote and were all in favour of naming it after Angela.

“She is a fantastic woman who does so much for the museum, it was the perfect choice.”

Ms Dugdale, who has been at the museum since it opened in 2004, said: “I am so proud and honoured, I’m totally chuffed about it.

“There have been lots of jokes about it, but it is such a great honour for me.

“The staff and volunteers work very closely together to make the museum the best it can be for visitors, we are like one big happy family.”

The new name plate was painted by Mr Foxton’s son Steven, who has also worked in the museum’s restoration department.

The Durham Locomotive Preservation Group will hold a model railway exhibition at the Town Hall in Spennymoor, County Durham, on Saturday and Sunday, May 10 and 11, from 10am to 4pm.