Flying Scotsman steams into town

HUNDREDS of steam enthusiasts lined the platform to see the iconic Flying Scotsman.

The famous engine was at Rawtenstall station on March 10-11 and visitors were able to get up close and personal.

It was on static display next to the platform as the engine made a hotly-anticipated return to the East Lancashire Railway (ELR).

The Mayor of Rossendale, Coun Colin Crawforth, officially welcomed the Scotsman back to the railway by cutting a red ribbon on the footplate of the locomotive.

Enthusiasts could sit in the driver’s seat and walk through the famous corridor tender. The event included an expert talk, the opportunity to meet the crew and climb into the cab with the Scotsman on Show experience.

Mike Kelly, ELR chairman, said it was a ‘fantastic start’ to their Scotsman season.

He added: “Over the weekend 600 people took part in our sold-out experience. Hundreds more turned up to see her while she was on show in the station. We are still overwhelmed by the amount of interest and adoration this locomotive commands, she really is the people’s engine.”

The ELR will welcome the Scotsman to Bury from March 29-April 2.

Pictures: Vincent Cole ●● A steady stream of people viewed the Flying Scotsman at Rawtenstall Station – more than 600 in total

Jan Howarth ●● East Lancashire Railway chairman Mike Kelly, Rawtenstall station master Graham Law and Mayor Colin Crawforth

●● Lee Kenny on the footplate