A LARGE steam engine was brought back to life at the weekend, recalling a bygone era when it helped supply water to hundreds of North-East homes.

One of two 100 horsepower engines at the Ryhope Engines Museum, near Sunderland, took up to a week to be prepared for the event.

The Ryhope Pumping Station, which was built in 1868 to supply water to the Sunderland area, ceased operating in 1967. It is now regarded as one of the finest industrial monuments in the region.

In addition to the beam engines, the museum houses three Lancashire boilers dating from 1908, two of which are still in regular use.

Although the station no longer pumps water, the two engines are kept in working order by members of the Ryhope Engines Trust and are put into operation periodically for visitors.

Ryhope Engines Trust chairman Keith Bell said: "We only steam up about eight times a year because there is such a lot of work involved. It takes up to a week to raise enough steam.

"Fuel is provided by wood from fencing contractors who would have to pay a lot in landfill taxes otherwise."

Visitors to the museum were also able to see water pumps, a blacksmith's forge, a replica plumber's shop and a range of waterworks accessories.

Ryhope Engines Museum is just off the A1018, three miles south of Sunderland, next to Ryhope General Hospital.

More volunteers are needed to help with the running of the museum.

To join the group, call 0191-521 0235.