The Midland Railway Centre in Butterley will be a lasting tribute to one of its founders, according to his colleagues.

John Hett, who died from cancer aged 54 on 1 January 2009, became general manager at the railway in 1978.

During his 30-year career, he was an integral part of the railway’s transformation from a colliery site to one of the most popular heritage railways, attracting more than 130,000 visitors each year.

Many of the attractions, including two museums and a country park, were developed from Mr Hett’s own plans.

Midland Railway Trust development officer Alan Calladine said: "A great deal of the Midland Railway is here because of John’s efforts and it is thanks to his dedication and commitment over 30 years that the railway is such a leading enterprise, both in the heritage railway movement and the local area.

"He will be greatly missed by all those who have worked with him over the years and his lasting monument will be the Midland Railway, Butterley."

Born in Pilsley, Mr Hett grew up in Arnold and Newthorpe, near Nottingham.

He married Andrea in September 1979 and moved to Butterley Row, Ripley, in 1982. They have two children, Stephanie, 24, and Adam, 22.

Mr Hett was chairman of Amber Valley Council for Voluntary Services until he stepped down in December.

Chief executive Lynn Allison said: "John was very professional and his experience in the industry was invaluable to us.

"Railways were his passion and he put so much work into his role at Midland simply because he loved the job."

Mr Hett was also a voluntary director of the Heritage Railway Association, a role which he held for more than 20 years.