Edinburgh’s historical Flying Scotsman train is set for a major overhaul ahead of its 100th birthday next year.
The express passenger train was the first service to run non-stop from Edinburgh to London in May 1928, and revolutionised travel for many.
Until then, a service had been in operation between the two cities but the journey lasted nearly 11 hours, compared to the Flying Scotsman at just over seven hours.
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By 1934 the train became the first locomotive to achieve speeds of 100 miles per hour, and after a rebuild lasted until 1963 when it was withdrawn from frontline service and sold for preservation.
Today the Flying Scotsman usually spends her year pulling trains for a number of heritage railways and commercial rail operators, giving the public a chance to travel in a range of elegant coaches behind this iconic engine at full steam.
But this year’s service has been cut drastically and after this month the train will be withdrawn for service completely to undergo a major overhaul.
The National Railway Museum (NRM) own the train and they have a host of celebrations lined up for next year, including an exhibition and film.
Riley & Son (E) Ltd are tasked with completing the restoration works, focusing on the boiler and the required retune and recertification.
Some speculation over a new livery or chimney configuration on the old train has been rife ahead of the centenary year.
However, the NRM say this is just speculation.
A spokesperson said “The National Railway Museum and Locomotion are planning to mark Flying Scotsman’s centenary with an exciting programme of activities and events throughout 2023.
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“Any speculation about what we are planning is just that – speculation.
"It’s great that people are starting to look ahead with anticipation to the centenary, and we’re working hard behind the scenes to ensure that we deliver a fitting celebration for a much-loved locomotive.”
The Flying Scotsman's last trip scheduled before the overhaul will be a London Salisbury day trip on March 24.
They have also just announced services between Sheffield Park and East Grinstead for five days from August 25 to August 29.
The Railway Museum say that the Flying Scotsman was built in Doncaster, and was the first locomotive of the newly formed London and North Eastern Railway (LNER).
It left the works on 24 February 1923 with number 1472. It was designed by Sir Nigel Gresley as part of the A1 class—the most powerful locomotives used by the LNER at that time.
Edinburgh Live will bring you the latest news on the centenary celebrations as they become available.
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