An appeal has been made for volunteers to help complete an ambitious restoration project.

When completed, the Epping Signal Cabin Project will feature a restored vintage locomotive and an old signal box converted into a miniature railway museum, but more people are needed to help finish the work.

After 11 years of gradual restoration work, project organisers are hoping to involve more volunteers ahead of a planned opening this year.

Electricians, fitters and decorators are all needed, as well as enthusiastic members of the public and local businesses able to donate materials for the two unique attractions.

Project leader Bob Yeldham, 58, from Shropshire, was one of the two men working in the Epping signal box on the last ever night it was operational, in 1996.

When opened the cabin will be the only working signal box in London, and an exhibition space will teach visitors about the transport heritage of Epping and surrounding areas.

“It is a part of Epping’s history and London’s history”, Mr Yeldham said.

“What we are trying to do is bring this little bit of history back into the public eye.

“There is no doubt there are people interested in railways looking for something slightly different.”

The unique locomotive, known as the L11, is now the last of its kind.

On loan from the London Transport Museum after it was destined for scrap, it was made more than 50 years ago by engineers combining parts of two separate trains.

Members of the public with an interest in the train or the cabin museum can meet Mr Yeldham, who will be at the site accessed via the Epping Tube car park, on 21 and 22 February.

For more information about volunteering or any other opportunities, email Mr Yeldham on eppingsignalcabin@btinternet.com.