Express & Star

Flying Scotsman on track to spark trainspotting frenzy

Hundreds of train fans flocked to the West Midlands to see the iconic Flying Scotsman in all its glory.

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The world's most famous engine steamed along the Severn Valley Railway yesterday morning.

The locomotive stopped in Bridgnorth at 8.55am as lucky passengers took a 15 minute break while spotters crowded round to catch that once-in-a-lifetime photograph.

More than 15,000 people are expected to take a trip on the Flying Scotsman over a five day period.

Among those who travelled on the train were Stuart Dove, aged 69, who said: "It was a great experience. To travel on an iconic train like the Flying Scotsman is everyone's dream. It brings back all sorts of memories."

Judith Taylor, 64, from Oldbury, said: "I love the Flying Scotsman. I went up to see it in York when it was on the turntable there, which was lovely, but to see it locally is absolutely fantastic. I came along to give it a kiss and take a selfie with it. I tried to get tickets to ride it, but missed out, so this is the next best thing," she said.

The Flying Scotsman returned to the SVR for the first time in 22 years after a £4.2 million restoration.

The locomotive was designed by Nigel Gresley for the London and North Eastern Railway. It was built in 1923 at Doncaster railway works.

Terry Waite, of Bristol, said: "I think the train is fabulous.

"I've been trying to track it down across the country and trips have been sold out.

"I'm 81 and I've had the day of my life.

"You see the Scotsman on the black and white films and it evokes memories of when I was a young man."

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