A SERVICE has been launched to help people researching the history of the railway.

Earlier this year, the National Railway Museum, in York, opened its £4m research and archive centre, Search Engine, which makes the museum’s collection of railway history accessible to all.

An Inreach team, organised by the Friends of the National Railway Museum, has been set up to assist people who have a complex or time-consuming query, but cannot devote the time and resources to visit Search Engine in person.

In return for £20, which will be used to support projects which increase access to the museum’s collections, the team will carry out a day’s research on the inquirer’s behalf.

The team consists of experts on most aspects of the railway industry who can even help the public track family members who worked on the railways years ago.

Archivist Tim Procter said: “This new service has been launched to give people with detailed or complicated queries access to our information, and should also be a great resource for those that cannot get to York.

“It will also help us raise vital funds to continue making this massive archive of railway history available.”

For more details, contact the team via search.engine @nrm.org.uk From cider to champagne – Valiant is launched

CHAMPAGNE corks will soon be popping at one of the region’s main attractions following the acquisition of luxurious Pullman-style carriage, Valiant.

Once referred to as palaces on wheels, Pullman-style carriages are the epitome of luxury and the painstakingly refurbished Valiant is the latest addition to the corporate hire facilities at the National Railway Museum, in York.

The carriage, which was built in 1956, has a diverse history. Starting life as a “workaday” vehicle, Valiant, a MK1 BG or Baggage Car, began carrying parcels and post all over the UK.

She became a service coach based at the Bulmers’ cider works, in Hereford, and later served under the Orient Express’ Northern Belle services carrying golfers to Gleneagles.

Following retirement from main line operation, Valiant was given a new lease of life by Railfilms Ltd, which restored the ambience and interior of the coach for high-class receptions, weddings and travelling exhibitions. From next month, anyone looking for a venue with a difference can hire the newly-restored carriage with its lavishly furbished interior and nostalgic livery.

For more information, call 01904-686226 or go to nrm.org.uk