AN archivist who helped set up a study centre housing a valuable collection of railway history has retired.

Ann Wilson, 65, has worked at Darlington Railway Museum for 11 years and was responsible for setting up the Ken Hoole Study Centre.

She originally began collating information from railway historian Ken Hoole's collection at Darlington Library before moving to the museum to house the works in a special study area.

Workers and friends at the museum held a celebration party for Ann and made her an honorary life member of the Friends of Darlington Railway Museum.

Ann said: "I had a wonderful last day. I was so surprised when I was made a life member. I wasn't expecting it at all. It was absolutely brilliant. I can't really pick out a best moment of my time here, the whole period has been great. I have enjoyed working in the centre and helping people with their questions and research."

Also retiring from the museum is Heritage manager Dr Stuart Nichol.