OK, it's not the longest preserved railway line in Britain but Coleford is on track to get its very own steam engine next year.

The Peckett locomotive number 1893 is being completely renovated by the team at Coleford's Great Western Railway Museum and by next August it is expected to be full steam ahead in the town centre.

"It's the shortest railway line anywhere in Britain," says steam engine buff Mike Rees who is looking forward to the ex-GWR engine chugging along the 120ft of railway line available at the museum.

It's not much to look at at present, but the engine is to be fully restored by Dick Parker and his team.

"It will be wonderful to hear the sound of steam engine in Coleford again," says Mike.

The dismantling took place last week and all the work is taking place on site.

Review readers are being asked if they can help.

The engine should have three brass windows but they are missing.

"The windows are being cast here in the Forest so if anyone has any bits of brass we would welcome it," said Mike.

Meanwhile the museum is open to visitors on Saturdays from 2.30pm until 5pm.

There is a collection of small engines on display, a full working signal box and many relics and items relating to the days of railways and steam in the Forest.