Flying Scotsman’s visit back to the East Lancashire Railway has been heralded as a huge success as the A3 returned to the railway that played a vital role in its restoration and return to steam.

At the start of June, No. 60103 arrived back in East Lancashire as the 12.5-mile line played host to the World Record Breaking steam engine.

During its stay, Flying Scotsman was used on passenger and dining trains in addition to being on public display. Over 9,750 people travelled behind the locomotive on its service trains, while the three black-tie premium dining services attracted over 500 passengers who not only enjoyed a piped band upon boarding the train but also enjoyed a 5-star service behind a world-class locomotive.

During its time on display, over 600 people took the opportunity to visit the footplate and no doubt sat in the driver’s seat, while also learning about the steam engine and its illustrious history.

“The Flying Scotsman is the flag bearer for heritage railways, a fantastic ambassador and showcase for Great British engineering. Testimony of this locomotive’s pedigree, which saw over 10,000 visitors to the railway and many more observing in the run from Bury to Rawtenstall.

I want to thank our wonderful staff and volunteers who tirelessly worked to provide not just a unique experience but also our visitors going away with wonderful memories of Scotsman on the ELR”

East Lancashire Railway chairman, Mike Kelly