20160304 - flying scotsman

Flying Scotsman returns to tracks 

in first UK journey since multi-million-dollar restoration

 

 

 One of the world's most famous steam locomotives has completed its first official journey after a painstaking restoration project.

 

The Flying Scotsman — a 93-year-old steam locomotive and jewel of Britain's industrial heritage — returned to the tracks on Thursday after a $8 million (4 million pounds) restoration.
The train streamed through the English countryside on its inaugural 280-kilometre journey to the historic city of York, billowing white smoke as passengers enjoyed a champagne breakfast in old-fashioned carriages with wooden compartments.
"It's a wonderful locomotive," William McAlpine, the British construction tycoon who once owned the engine, said.
"She's in the right place doing the right thing and very much loved by everybody, and the wonderful thing about her, she makes people smile, people love her."
Trainspotters lined the track in some areas, causing the train to be an hour late due to disruptions.
At one point near the town of St Neots in Cambridgeshire, the locomotive was forced to come to a sudden stop because of dozens of people on the line.


 http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-02-26/flying-scotsman-steam-train-returns-to-the-tracks/7202358