An historic steam locomotive built in Swindon almost 90 years ago has a new group of fans.

The 'Earl of Mount Edgcumbe', manufactured in 1936, has its own Facebook page named '5043 Earl of Mount Edgcumbe Fans'.

The 500 members share admiration and experiences of the 79-ton locomotive which has six foot eight inch wheels.

During the early days of World War Two it operated out of the old Swindon railway shed.

The engine, which once held the record for the fastest non-stop journey between Plymouth and Bristol, was saved from the scrapyard by rail enthusiasts after it was withdrawn from service with British Rail in 1963.

It is currently owned by charity Vintage Trains and operates excursion trains from Tyseley, near Birmingham.

Tony Merrett, a member of the Facebook group, said: "Can’t wait to see it back in action – best-looking Castle in preservation by far."

Another, Sharon Salter, added: "Earl of Mount Edgcumbe was always my favourite loco where I felt privileged to travel behind her as a steward and later the Train Manager."

She said she has "so many happy memories" of the train.

The locomotive is set to pull regular excursion trains from Birmingham to various locations over the summer.