Greatest Gathering hailed a 'resounding success'

The Flying Scotsman was among more than 140 locomotives and railway vehicles that took part in the event

Historic and high-speed modern trains have been leaving Derby after a major festival for enthusiasts of rail travel over the weekend.

More than 140 locomotives and railway vehicles were on display as part of The Greatest Gathering, including famous vehicles such as the Flying Scotsman.

The three-day event was held as part of Railway 200, a year-long commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the world's first passenger railway journey.

After more than 40,000 people - including some from as far as New Zealand - steamed into Derby for the festivities, organiser Ben Goodwin said: "I think it's safe to say it's been a resounding success."

Ben Goodwin organised The Greatest Gathering in Derby

Billed as "the world's largest-ever collection of historic and modern rolling stock", The Greatest Gathering took place at train manufacturer Alstom's Litchurch Lane Works, the first time it opened its doors to the public in nearly 50 years.

Mr Goodwin said he had been overwhelmed "by reams and reams of just beautiful, wonderful comments".

"I've never seen anything like it - the positivity and the love has just been phenomenal," he said.

"I'm just proud of everyone who's involved."

Despite the success of this year's event, Mr Goodwin said it will be some time before an event of a similar magnitude is hosted.

He explained that Alstom was "back to building trains", adding the firm is "simply going to be too busy in the factory" to take on the responsibility of a repeat event.

"It was a labour of love, but it was very, very difficult - a very small team of us worked on it," he said.

"I think it was a unique moment in time, something that we're all incredibly proud of.

"Here in Derby, we hosted the world's largest-ever gathering of modern and historic rolling stock - what an achievement.

"For me, I don't think my career will ever be topped by this, I'm just blessed to be able to be part of the team that organised this."