Great Western Railway (GWR) has honoured two railway heroes by naming an Intercity Express Train after them.

Oliver Lovell and Sir Peter Parker were celebrated in a ceremony at London Paddington on November 30.

‘Great Westerners’ recognises past and present heroes across the GWR network.

Evesham Journal: Oliver Lovell's sister, Diana Barr (right) and Sir Peter Parker's daughter, Lucy Parker (left)Oliver Lovell's sister, Diana Barr (right) and Sir Peter Parker's daughter, Lucy Parker (left) (Image: GWR)

Mr Lovell, one of the honourees, was the founding chairman of the Cotswold Line Promotion Group.

He formed the group in March 1978, initially with the aim of opposing the possible closure of the line.

Until his sudden death in 2013, he stayed in the committee, fostering improvements including reopening Honeybourne station and aiding Morton-in-Marsh and Hanborough station enhancements.

Mr Lovell's sister, Diana Barr, said: "I am very much looking forward to this tribute to my brother, recognising his dedication and hard work in promoting the Cotswold Line which he was so fond of.

"It is an extremely proud moment for us and I know he would have been thrilled and honoured by this recognition."

Sir Peter Parker, the other recipient of the honour, was chairman of the British Railways Board from 1976 to 1983.

Known for his effective management style, he used the Charlbury station regularly and helped transform the reputation of Britain’s railways.

Sir Peter’s daughter, Lucy Parker, said: "To have this train carrying his name as it travels along the tracks would have thrilled my father.

"He loved the people of the railway community and to be honoured in this way would have made him more proud than words can say."

Lord Faulkner, president of the Cotswold Line Promotion Group, said: "Today’s naming ceremony commemorates two very different individuals who contributed immensely to the well-being of the North Cotswold railway line, and I congratulate GWR for granting them this unique honour."

GWR business development portfolio director, Tom Pierpoint, added: "We’re incredibly proud that Intercity Express Train 800028 will carry the names of Oliver Lovell and Sir Peter Parker, two stalwarts who have done so much to ensure the preservation of the North Cotswold Line and the wellbeing of the railway in general."