Flying Scotsman to take to the tracks for first time in a decade

The Flying Scotsman in August 1969 Credit: Press Association

The world's best known steam locomotive will take to the tracks today for the first time in public for a decade.

The Flying Scotsman, which was built in Doncaster in 1923, will be brought back to life following a £4.2m restoration.

Engineers working on The Flying Scotsman locomotive Credit: Press Association

Work on the legendary engine has been ongoing in York and Bury. Colin Green, co-director at Riley & Son, the firm of steam and diesel engineering working on the project said the day would be milestone.

Only once Flying Scotsman has built up its mileage on heritage and main lines with January's test runs will it be considered ready for its full return to the spotlight. It will then return to the workshop where it was restored to be transformed into its BR Green livery ready for its welcome home event in late February 2016.

The engine was built at Doncaster and completed in February 1923. National Railway Museum director Paul Kirkman said the locomotive's return would be a flying start to the 'birthday' month.

The Flying Scotsman in August 1969 Credit: Press Association

In 1934, the Flying Scotsman was the first locomotive to officially reach 100mph. The flagship service is known for on-board innovations like the cinema car, cocktail bar and hairdressing salon.

As well as going on display at the National Railway Museum in York, the 'Scotsman' will tour the UK as a working museum exhibit, educating fans of all ages about the wonders of the engineering behind its steam traction.