Author Christopher Train dies
A popular author and historian from Shropshire who wrote about Craven Arms and other topics has died.
Christopher Train wrote a number of books and was best known for his 80-page volume Of Steam And Sheep, which recorded the history of Craven Arms.
He was also actively involved in his local church and promoted other good causes, including local civic societies.
Mr Train, who was 75, was a former civil servant and died peacefully on Monday following a short illness. A funeral service will be held at St Swithin's Church, in Clunbury, on May 24 at 2pm.
Claude Bodenham, a former Craven Arms councillor, said: "Mr Train made a great contribution to the lives of people in Craven Arms and other parts of south Shropshire. He will be missed."
Of Steam and Sheep came out in 2000 after history buffs and author Chris Train obtained a lottery grant of £2,977 for it.
The 80-page book proved an instant hit with local people and historians, who were enthralled by the story of Craven Arms over the years.
Mr Train also wrote A Country Education, which recorded the history of youngsters at schools in Clunbury. The book told the story of the all-ages school at Clunbury from the 1860s down to 1958, when it became a primary school.
Mr Train was also prominent in an £81,000 scheme to repair the roof of the 800-year-old St Swithin's Church.
