RECORD numbers of visitors are flocking to Carnforth railway station to pay homage to Brief Encounter film director David Lean.

The exhibition about the Oscar winner's life and works attracted an estimated 4,000 people during its opening month - July - said heritage centre manager John Adams.

"The main comment is that people did not realise the range of films that David Lean directed and did not immediately associate him with: Lawrence of Arabia, Dr Zhivago, Ryan's Daughter etc," said Mr Adams.

Seventy years ago, Lean directed classic black-and-white romance Brief Encounter at Carnforth station, starring Celia Johnson and Trevor Howard.

The free exhibition runs until December 31, and is to take a short break on August 22 and 23 to make way for Carnforth's annual model railway weekend.

At least eight layouts of various gauges will be on view from 10am to 4pm, with food and drink served in the Brief Encounter Refreshment Rooms on the station platform.

For more details, including the forthcoming David Lean Film Season in the Furness and Midland Hall, visit www.carnforthstation.co.uk

Meanwhile, Somerset-based sculptor Laura Lian is to meet with Carnforth town councillors next week to discuss plans for a bronze statue of David Lean in the town centre.