Historic train named after respected British Rail manager is set to star at a festival.

The four-carriage Class 423 4VEP electric multiple unit is named after Gordon Pettitt, who opened Harman's Cross station in 1989.

An HISTORIC train named after a respected British Rail manager is set to star at a festival.

The four-carriage Class 423 4VEP electric multiple unit is named after Gordon Pettitt, who opened Harman’s Cross station in 1989.

He died in March of this year aged 90.

The train will be the centrepiece of the Diesel Gala and Beer Festival alongside eight other 1960s locomotives.

Dan Bennett, event organising team member, said: "We are delighted the 1967 4VEP electric multiple unit ‘Gordon Pettitt’ will be taking part in our diesel gala as it’s an important piece of almost 60-year-old history and a poignant tribute to the highly respected former British Rail Southern Region general manager from the 1980s who officially opened the Swanage Railway’s new Harman’s Cross station in 1989."

READ MORE: Brass horn to sound at Swanage Railway 140th anniversary

Harman's Cross opening Gordon Pettitt March 4, 1989 (Image: Andrew PM Wright) The popular event takes place from Friday, May 9, to Sunday, May 11, with the beer festival at Corfe Castle station organised by Purbeck Kitchens.

Now in its 18th year, the Diesel Gala and Beer Festival features an intensive three-train service between Norden, Corfe Castle, Harman’s Cross and Swanage.

There will be a special preview event on Thursday, May 8, on the theme of the 1980s and early 1990s British Rail sector called Network South East.

SEE MORE: Spring Steam Gala starring 'Hall' class loco at Swanage Railway

4VEP 3417 Gordon Pettitt Corfe Castle (Image: Andrew PM Wright) The event will feature evening Beerex diesel trains between Swanage and Corfe Castle station on Friday and Saturday.

The Class 20 locomotive will perform the honours on Friday evening and Class 33 No. D6515 Lt Jenny Lewis RN on Saturday evening.

Visitors can expect a range of historic locomotives, including Class 20 No. 20 066, Class 45 No. 45 108, newly preserved Class 47 No. 47 715 and Class 50 No. 50 008 Thunderer.

The beer festival will offer 45 real ales and ciders and hot food will be available.

Admission to the beer festival will be free with a token system in operation for the purchase of drinks.

More details about the Diesel Gala and Beer Festival, including timetables and fares, can be found on Swanage Railway’s website.

The railway is also encouraging those interested in volunteering to get in touch.