AN author will discuss the role of the region’s railways during the First World War at a lecture taking place next week.

Rob Langham, author of The North Eastern Railway in the First World War, is to deliver a talk at Durham Cathedral on Thursday, August 4.

During the conflict, the railway had to release 18,000 members of staff to serve in the military, of whom 2,236 were killed.

At the same time there was a dramatic increase in the number of women working on the railway, up from under 1,500 at the outbreak of war to 8000 at its height.

Charlotte Rowbotham, head of education at Durham Cathedral, said: “We are thrilled to be hosting Rob Langham for a lecture that promises to tell us something new about our region during the First World War”.

The talk, which comes as the National Railway Museum, in York, hosts an exhibition about railways in the First World War, takes place in Prior’s Hall at 7.30pm and entry is £5, including refreshments. To reserve a place email education@durhamcathedral.co.uk or call 0191 374 4070.