The man who set up the National Railway Museum in York has died aged 66.

Dr John Coiley collapsed and died of natural causes last Friday while leading a rail tour in Switzerland.

Dr Coiley, who lived near Knaresborough, was appointed in 1973 to set up the museum, and he led it from its opening in 1975 through 17 years of growth until he retired in 1992.

During that time, the museum won the Come to Britain trophy and the Museum of the Year award.

"For many people, John Coiley WAS the NRM," said Andrew Scott, present Head of Museum.

"His achievement as head of the museum was to establish the National Railway Museum as the world's leading institution of its kind - an incredibly successful attraction with a commitment to sharing its collections with museums and other organisations all over the country."

He said Dr Coiley had been a source of inspiration in retirement as an active member of its support group, the Friends.

Dr Coiley leaves a widow Patsy and three children, Jennifer, David and Simon.

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