A 1960s train has been bought by a heritage railway for passengers to travel on.

A former Southern Region class 207 diesel electric multiple unit (DEMU), affectionately named a "thumper" due to the noise of its engine, will be the first passenger hauling diesel owned by the Bluebell railway.

Set number 1305 will soon be running on the route between Sheffield Park and East Grinstead.

The class of unit was introduced in 1962, built for use on the Southern Region, and its many passenger duties used to regularly work out of London Bridge or London Victoria towards East Grinstead.

The Argus: The train is affectionately known as a 'thumper'The train is affectionately known as a 'thumper' (Image: Bluebell Railway)

Paul Russell, locomotive engineering director said: “I am pleased that we have been able to acquire this DEMU which completes another part of the jigsaw that will allow us to depict the Southern Region scene in the sixties and seventies.

"These units were synonymous with commuter services to and from East Grinstead, and will form a useful and economic means of bringing passengers to our railway earlier than is currently possible and allowing them to spend a full day exploring the line and experiencing the sight and sound of steam and for some the nostalgia of the daily commute.”

Coulsdon Old Vehicle & Engineering Society worked to restore this unit to working order before it was purchased by the railway.

The train will be restored by the 1305 Thumper Group, who are a specialist team of enthusiasts.

A spokesman for the Bluebell Railway said: "A date for the unit’s arrival at The Bluebell Railway is still being finalised with all parties concerned.

"A donations page is being created by The Bluebell Railway Trust and will be made available soon for those interested in donating to the group."