MP Alan Milburn boarded a replica locomotive built by volunteers.

The former Cabinet minister paid his first visit to The A1 Steam Locomotive Trust in Hopetown Lane, Darlington, to learn about the creation of the first main line steam locomotive.

Since 1994 the trust has been building the replica Tornado locomotive based on the original design by Arthur Peppercorn. Mr Milburn said: "I am amazed at the hard work and effort put in by the volunteers - Darlington has always had an historic link with railways. I look forward to the day it is up and running."

The locomotive will eventually be used to haul charter trains on the main lines, but it is not known when the project will be finished.

Mark Allatt, chairman of the trust, said he can't put a time limit on the scheme because it relies on charitable donations to run.

He said the visit from Mr Milburn was a great success and he had shown tremendous interest in progress of the initiative.

"I'm pleased that he was finally able to see this significant project happening in his own constituency," he said. For more details about the project call (01325) 460163.