ERIC Fawthrop had every reason to get 'steamed up' recently - but it was all for a good cause.

The sprightly 86-year-old Abbeyfield House resident was given the VIP treatment when the Hagley based sheltered housing scheme transformed its lounge and dining room into a ticket office and tea room as a tribute to Eric who volunteers at Severn Valley Railway.

Eric added to the occasion by providing posters and time tables for the event.

Yvonne Sandford, senior house manager, said: "We wanted to prove that people still have a life outside of Abbeyfield and Eric is a testimony to that.

"Eric has opened the door on his life of volunteering and gives talks on his work with Severn Valley in their ticket office."

Such is the impact made by Eric, that Abbeyfield is planning to take around 40 of their residents for a day trip on the Severn Valley Railway.

They are also staging at 'Tea at the Ritz' event on Wednesday July 16.