The fourth anniversary of the death of John Peel is to be marked with the naming of a railway engine in his honour.

Rail operator Merseytravel are to dedicate the train at Liverpool South Parkway Station this Thursday, October 23rd, after which it will make its maiden journey into the city of Liverpool.

At the ceremony, a Liverpool musician will play a version of Amsterdam's 'Does This Train Stop On Merseyside?', one of Peel's favourites.

Peel's wife Sheila, who will be at the ceremony, spoke about the track: "John just loved the song. He always became emotional when he played it," she said. "He wasn't capable of playing it without crying. If he played it on the radio he'd have to put something on straight afterwards because he wouldn't be able to speak. When he played it at home, he'd always need a cuddle afterwards.

"We are just really delighted that John is being honoured with this train. He would have loved it!"