Did you know that King George V and Queen Mary came to Millom on May 17 in 1917 but never set foot in the town?

The answer to this puzzle is provided by the Royal Train which made an unexpected stop on the platform at Millom Railway Station while the King and Queen were having a meal.

The story was told in the Barrow News of Saturday, May 19, in 1917.

It noted: “At Millom large crowds had gathered on the bridge and embankment in the hope of catching a fleeting glimpse of their Majesties.

“The arrival of the royal train was greeted by loud cheers.

“An excellent view of their majesties was obtained through an unexpected happening.

“The signals were against the train, which slowed down and came to a standstill in the station.

“The King and Queen, who were dining, acknowledged the renewed cheers of the crowd.

“The stations officials and the special constables were on duty on the platform and were acknowledged by their Majesties.”

The King had been on a tour of Vickers shipyard and the munitions works at Barrow.