IT’S been 180 years since Stephenson’s rocket triumphed at the Rainhill Trials. Now the first steam locomotive is back – but, unlike its predecessor, the reincarnation is more environmentally friendly.

The replica, which was built following the original designs, was made entirely out of sustainable resources.

The sculpture, a willow wooden base with willow weaving, is now situated proudly at its new home at Rainhill St Ann’s CE Primary School in the new sensory playground.

The sculpture was built by engineer David Joddrell and environmental artist Pat Smith over a six-week period.

Mr Joddrell said: “The structure is made almost entirely from willow with some of the base made from plywood to achieve the correct shape.

“When I was drafted in to build the rocket, I went online and found a site selling the original designs, so I bought them and made it to scale.

“I have been working in the school for the past few weeks putting all of the different parts in place.

“The children have been coming over and watching what I have been doing.

“They are all really excited about it being in their new playground, which is a great sense of satisfaction for me as we built it for them.”