Steam enthusiasts looking forward to seeing the Flying Scotsman in action this Saturday on a run between York and Edinburgh are warned not to stray onto railway tracks.

 

On an inaugural run from London King’s Cross in February after a 10 year refurbishment the locomotive had to stop en route to the National Railway Museum after several incidents of trespass, with people walking along tracks to get a better view and take photographs.

 

As a result all trains on the East Coast Mainline had to be stopped, causing delays to 59 services.

 

Network Rail managing director Phil Hufton said: “I urge those who plan to see the Flying Scotsman to do so from a safe position and not go onto the railway under any circumstances. The images of people stood on the railway taking photographs were deeply concerning.”

 

British Transport Police chief inspector David Oram added: “We understand people are excited about seeing the Flying Scotsman’s return, but we urge people to stay clear of the line and not be tempted to risk their lives.”

 

Restoration of the 93 year old locomotive was completed earlier this year at a cost of £4.2M. It is now embarking on a series of excursions around the UK.

 

In 1928 the Flying Scotsman hauled the first ever non stop service between London and Edinburgh; a journey that took eight hours and 15 minutes. It was scrapped by British Railways in 1962 and was taken on tours of America and Australia before returning to Britain.