'Century-old Flying Scotsman still charms with the magic of steam'

20 November 2023 , 19:10

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The Flying Scotsman at Newcastle Central Station (Image: Craig Connor/ChronicleLive)

She came tearing through Cononley station in a plume of white smoke, whistle sounding.

This was her southbound return trip, in the dark amid driving rain, on a 90mph stretch of level track. I was nearly knocked off my feet.

Whoosh! In a noisy cloud of steam, 60103 and her train of vintage carriages was gone. I may not enjoy the thrill of that experience again.

In her centenary year, Flying Scotsman, the world’s most famous locomotive, still has the power to attract young and old. Two families watched from the Skipton side, while a couple of fellow puffer-nutters from Halifax filmed the event.

The Flying Scotsman (PA)

The sight of yesteryear reminded me of long summer days spent on Doncaster station.

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I’m talking more than 60 years ago, when collecting engine numbers was a teenage passion, with railfans clubs in schools like mine.

I was in awe of the crew of these mighty machines, mostly modest men with a quiet pride in the job. My greatest joy was an invitation into the cab while the train waited for the “away” signal. The heat from the fire was intense, the smell of oil and steam unforgettable.

When Flying Scotsman first came through here after being restored to her former glory in 2016, there were crowds. For today’s run, only a trio of trainspotters braved the downpour.

Perhaps this iconic locomotive is losing some of her attraction, but she still has a loyal following of us oldies. And happily, every generation discovers the magic of steam. We are all “railway children” at heart.

Paul Routledge