RAIL company Grand Central honoured William Shakespeare's birthday by unveiling a train named after the Bard.

The newly refurbished engine was revealed at London King's Cross Station today and will carry passengers from the capital to York, where they can watch performances at the pop up Shakespeare Rose Theatre this summer.

Welcome to Yorkshire chief executive Sir Gary Verity and Lunchbox Theatrical Productions chief executive James Cundall joined director of Grand Central Richard McClean to unveil the train.

Noreen Allen, marketing and communications manager at Grand Central, which is the title sponsor for the project, said: “York is a true centre for culture and this incredible event running throughout the summer will draw thousands of people to the city from far and wide.

"It offers people of all ages the chance to experience the timeless works of one of the world’s greatest playwrights and discover something new. We’re thrilled to be supporting the event and helping people experience it for themselves.”

The opening production at the theatre near Clifford's Tower takes place on June 25.

For tickets visit shakespearesrosetheatre.com.