Phil Gain, steam train driver

The Bluebell is well known for starring in the 1999 ITV production of The Railway Children and, this month is celebrating 50 years since the first train ran on what was the first preserved standard-gauge passenger railway in the world.

Without the success of the pioneering effort in establishing the line (constructed in 1882), it is unlikely that many heritage railways would be operational today. The Bluebell Preservation Society, which will be receiving the award, looks after the railway and houses the largest collection of steam locomotives in the UK, after the National Railway Museum. It has a collection of almost 150 carriages and wagons.

IMechE Heritage Awards are granted to artefacts, sites or landmarks or groups that are either one of a kind and/or of significant engineering importance.