A popular visitor attraction in the East Midlands has received a boost in its bid to become part of the National Railway Museum.

The Great Central Railway, based in Loughborough, says it is unique and should be given the backing to develop into a branch of York's national museum.

The steam railway is also aiming to become Britain's first inter-city heritage line, running between Leicester and Nottingham.

Its bid to expand and link with the national network has been bolstered by an article in the latest issue of a national railway magazine.

'Magnificent' facility

Heritage Railway has supported it being developed into an operating arm of the York-based museum.

The latest issue of the magazine describes the Great Central as a "magnificent education and leisure facility" with the potential to grow into a major magnet for tourists.

It would not only boost the railway as it struggles with its own money troubles, but would also be a boon for the Loughborough economy.

The railway is currently drawing up new plans for its future.

Great Central Railway operates full-sized steam trains every weekend and on weekdays from June to September.

It also offers people the chance to take the controls of a steam locomotive for between �245 and �1350.