Return of the Flyer

Newly-appointed Kingston Flyer operations manager Russell Glendinning is delighted the historic steam train will be back in service by mid-October, and hopes it will boost local businesses.

Marlborough vineyard owner David Bryce bought the train this week in a purchase that included the keys to the Kingston Tavern.

The train had been in receivership since 2009, and the tavern closed in May this year. Several business owners said the number of visitors to the town had decreased since the train stopped running.

Mr Glendinning had driven the train for many years before it went into receivership and said it represented the town.

Six to 10 jobs would be created, he said.

- Olivia Caldwell