STEAM train enthusiast Stephen Howard wants to create a committee to launch trips around the steam railways of Britain.

Stephen, of Lower Withington, is appealing for people to become members of a committee for the Swiftline National Steam Railway Society so excursions can begin around Wales, the Lake District and Stoke-on-Trent.

In 2004, Stephen appeared on BBC One’s Brassed Off Britain – a series based on the public’s grievances.

He voiced his annoyance about Britain’s rail network and planned to create a no-frills service as an alternative to Richard Branson’s Virgin service between Manchester and London.

However, the first trip could not go ahead as Mr Howard said a date could not be agreed with train operator English Welsh and Scottish Railway (EWS).

Now retired, Stephen is focusing on the society, and is keen to establish a committee so his dream of running steam train excursions can become a reality.

He said: “Once people get involved we can start work on private railways. I'll start with booze cruises then expand from there.”

Anyone interested in joining the committee can contact Stephen on 01477 571582 or 07528 222506.