A SPECIAL memorial train will be running along the South Devon Railway tomorrow to remember driver John Frood.

The railway is holding a ‘running day’ in honour of its popular volunteer who died suddenly from a heart attack in November 2016, aged just 56.

Dick Wood, of the railway, said: ‘In a fitting tribute to John it’s planned that Class 33 diesel loco No. 33002/D6501 will run a ‘top and tailed’ train operation over the SDR, complete with a personal head-board and wreath. The loco will also bear a memorial plaque to him in the cab. The SDR’s Class 25 diesel will be providing cover if needed.

‘Tragically, John was passed out as a Class 09 diesel driver just days before he died. He was also passed out on the SDR’s diesel multiple unit and, in time, was looking forward to driving his much-loved Class 33 too.’

Dick said John was a passionate supporter of Class 33 diesel locos and railways in general, and also an active member of the South Devon Diesel Traction Group, the South Devon Railway Association, the Branch Line Society and Irish Traction Group.

He added: ‘Over the years he’d also arranged rail tours himself under the Merlin Railtours brand and was a keen loco timing enthusiast.

‘His packed funeral was attended by some 250 mourners in Exeter with a collection for the British Heart Foundation, and ended with a sound recording of his favourite Class 33 loco No 33002 departing from a station stop.’

John worked all his life at the Post Office in Exeter until retiring in 2015. He was a union health and safety rep with the Communication Workers’ Union at the Exeter sorting office area, but covered most of Devon with his work.

At the start of the ‘running day’ there’ll be an earlier private ceremony around 10am, in which John’s ashes will be scattered down the railway line by his family and close friends.