MP Alan Milburn yesterday checked on the progress of a replica locomotive built by North-East 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 drawings of 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 engine 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 could not put a time limit on the scheme because it relies on charitable donations to keep going.

He said Mr Milburn showed great interest in the progress of the job.

For more information about the project or about volunteering for the trust, call (01325) 460163 or visit www.a1steam.com.