Flying Scotsman returns to East Coast Main Line

Image: Reuters

The iconic 60103 Flying Scotsman officially returned to the East Coast Main Line today after 80 years since it became the first locomotive to reach 100 miles an hour (160 kph).

Image: Reuters

The Flying Scotsman will return to main line track today following more than 10 years of restoration at £4.2 million and over 80 years since breaking the 100mph speed record on a London to Leeds run on 30 November 1934.

Flying Scotsman makes iconic journey from London King’s Cross station to York

Built in 1923, the locomotive will make the unique journey from King’s Cross station on a five hour journey to York via the East Coast Main Line, where it will go on display at the National Railway Museum. The Flying Scotsman will then begin a programme of heritage journeys on Britain’s main lines throughout 2016.

Commenting on the locomotives return, heritage Minster, Tracey Crouch, said:  “This is a wonderful way to tell the story of this iconic and well-travelled locomotive and will ensure that people now and in the future understand why it is such an important part of Great Britain’s heritage.”

The vehicle is being showcased alongside Virgin Trains’ own ‘Flying Scotsman’ following an investment of more than £40 million to improve the operator’s fleet. The new vehicles feature new leather seats in first class, new seats in standard, new carpets and lighting. Virgin Trains East Coast has also received permission to run an extra 42 services a week on the route, boosting seat capacity by 22,000.

The original Flying Scotsman will be on display in York until 06 March 2016.