A diesel engine is set to haul a weekend special through Solihull this Sunday (August 9) due to a network-wide steam ban.

Either steam engines 7029 Clun Castle or 5043 Earl of Mount Edgcumbe were due to pull 'The Shakespeare Express' from Birmingham this weekend.

However, due to a Network Rail steam ban, they will be replaced by diesel 37240.

Operator Vintage Trains said: "The Shakespeare Express goes on! Network Rail's steam ban might still be in place, due to the current heat, but our series of amazing Sunday trips between Birmingham and Stratford-upon-Avon continues.

"This Sunday, our historic diesel locomotive 37240 will pick up the mantle and will run between Birmingham and Stratford-upon-Avon on the mainline, exactly as planned. This is a great chance to see one of our impressive diesel fleet earning its keep.

"Dining options in First Class get the same great quality of service and food, while Standard Class travellers can still head to our well-stocked buffet car for snacks and drinks throughout."

The express will travel to Stratford-upon-Avon every Sunday until 30 August, travelling through Solihull, Dorridge, Hatton and Henley-in-Arden.

Run by Vintage Trains, the excursion will actually pass through the area four times on each Sunday, as it makes the journey to and from Birmingham in the middle of the day.

See more on the Vintage Trains website.