'The Traitors railway' buys North Yorkshire locomotive

A heritage railway used as a location for The Traitors has bought a new locomotive.

Aviemore-based Strathspey Railway has appeared in three series of the reality TV show, which is filmed at Ardross Castle near Alness.

The volunteer-run company has purchased a steam loco nicknamed the "Pocket Rocket" from North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR).

Officially known as British Railways Standard Class 4MT 2-6-0 No 76079, it requires a full overhaul before being put to use on Strathspey's 10-mile (16km) route between Aviemore and Broomhill, via Boat of Garten.

The locomotive was built at Horwich Works, near Bolton, in 1957.

It had hauled services between Grosmont and Whitby on the Esk Valley Line.

NYMR chief executive Laura Strangeway said the Highland railway was a "fitting new home" for No 76079.

Strathspey Railway director Gordon Kirk added: "She is a locomotive with real character and main line pedigree, and we look forward to undertaking the work needed to return her to steam for the enjoyment of visitors to the Highlands for many years to come."

Last year, a mystery American donor gave £1m to Strathspey Railway.

The company said the "exceptionally generous" gift would help cover costs for operating and refurbishing its locomotives.

As well as featuring in The Traitors, the railway appeared on screen in the BBC drama Monarch of the Glen and ITV's Doctor Findlay.