A MEMORIAL train named after a railway loving former bishop has run on the North York Moors Railway 32-years to the day after his death.

The Eric Treacy steam engine, named after a former Bishop of Wakefield, ran on the tourist railway (NYMR) for the first time in 11-years.

It took place on Thursday, May 13, after a £600,000 restoration programme and it ran in North Yorkshire from Grosmont to Pickering.

The train is named after Eric Treacy who was a prolific railway photographer whose 12,000 images are at the National Railway Museum, York.

Mr Treacy died of a heart attack on May 13 1978 at Appleby station on the Settle and Carlisle line while waiting for a rail tour.

The train will also form part of the NYMR’s Steam Gala today, tomorrow and Sunday (may 14-16) with details at www.nymr.co.uk.

Philip Benham, general manager of the NYMR, said: "The return of Eric Treacy into traffic really is divine intervention.

"It strengthens the line-up of engines we so badly need for a gala of this kind.

"We have struggled in recent weeks to deliver the level of service expected by our passengers.

"As a result of the hard work of our staff and volunteers at the Grosmont engine sheds, this splendid engine will be pressed into service without further ado.

"It will join another icon, the A4 Pacific engine Sir Nigel Gresley which is also making a return this coming weekend following comprehensive repairs.

"Along with a number of other engines, there will be plenty to see and do over the weekend. We hope to give our passengers a great day out."