It's full steam ahead for the Downs Light Railway, after a volunteer secured a grant to help build a new station.

Peter Smith, a BT engineer who helps run the railway at the Downs School in Colwall, was given £250 by the BT Community Champions award scheme.

This benefits community or charitable groups where BT staff help out in their spare time.

Mr Smith has been involved with the railway for two-and-a-half-years and supervises pupils as they maintain the trains and keep the railway in working order.

"We've been given an old shed and we're going to convert it into a station," said Mr Smith. "The Community Champions award means we can start work in the new year.

"It'll be good for the children to to try their hand at building and when that's done they can decorate it."

Mr Smith got involved with the railway through his wife, who is a matron at the school.

"We live on site, so were looking for something to do on a Saturday," he said. "I really enjoy it. It's like every man's dream, having a steam railway in your back garden."

Beth Courtier, of the BT Community Champions scheme, said: "We're happy to make this award to Peter in recognition of his dedication and commitment to the railway."

The Downs Light Railway was established in 1925 to provide a hobby for children at the school. It is the oldest miniature light railway in England.

It operates every Saturday morning and is maintained by five to 12-year-old pupils as part of their school curriculum.