PART of Lancashire's steam heritage is at risk as owners of a popular locomotive have put it up for sale.

The 34092 'City of Wells' engine, which has become a regular feature along East Lancashire Railway (ELR) tracks, is up for sale and the rail charity hopes to purchase the train.

ELR needs the help of the public to raise £320,920 towards the cost of the engine which is being sold by current owners, Richard Greenwood, Graham Bentley and John Adams.

Mike Kelly, chairman of ELR, said: "Over the past two years we have been honoured to host 'City of Wells', who since her arrival in July 2015 has become a stalwart of the railway’s locomotive line-up.

"Come rain or shine 'Wells' has proudly represented the railway and done her bit for our cause and community.

"She has looked after us and it’s now time for us to look after her. The locomotive has resided in the North West for many years, and with the help of our supporters, we can ensure she stays here for many more!

"As a not-for-profit organisation we simply do not have the funds to secure the engine’s future, which is why we are calling upon the support of our railway family to give 'Wells' the home she deserves.

"Please visit our 'Preservation for Generations' website and read about the 'A Home for Wells' appeal and just how important this cause is.

"We appreciate all support, and any donations received, however small, will be one more precious step to our target of securing this heritage locomotive for now and for the future generations of volunteers and visitors.”

The engine was built in 1949 at Brighton Works and spent its early life hauling express passenger trains in the south, even working the 'Golden Arrow' luxury boat train from London to Dover.

The West Country Class was withdrawn from service in November 1964 and sent to Woodham Brothers Scrapyard in Barry Island, where it remained for seven years until it was purchased by its current owners in 1971.

They brought it to the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway and 'Wells' returned to service in 1979.

The money ELR needs to purchase the engine must be raised by the end of 2018, according to the deal struck with the owners.

The owners released a statement saying: "Since being based at Bury over the last two years, we have come to recognise the ELR as a progressive railway with the right developing skills and facilities which gives us the confidence that the long-term future of 'Wells' will be secure."