THE newly-built miniature steam engine at Scarborough's North Bay has inspired a children's author's latest book.

Joe Coates, who has held several storytelling sessions at Pickering in recent years, is the author of the North Bay Tales series of books. Other titles in the series include Teddy Bears' Picnic, A Birthday Surprise and Donkey Alert - all at North Bay Railway.

The latest title, the seventh in the series, is called The New Steam Engine at North Bay Railway, and features the recent arrival of Georgina, a locally-built miniature steam engine, at North Bay Railway.

The book is aimed at young children, particularly those who have travelled on the train. It was launched at the weekend at North Bay Railway's Train Gala.

Books are available from the author and from North Bay Railway. For more information, go to northbaytales.com and nbr.org.uk