TRAIN enthusiasts enjoyed a day of family fun as the Flying Scotsman visited the county. 

The legendary locomotive, on static display at Rawtenstall Station, was admired by hundreds of people including the Mayor and Mayoress of Rossendale, Cllr Colin Crawforth and wife Denise. 

It was the first to exceed 100mph in the UK and has long represented the very best of British industry. 

Mike Kelly, East Lancashire Railway chairman, said: “What a fantastic start to our Scotsman season.

“We were delighted to welcome the Mayor and Mayoress of Rossendale who officially opened our Scotsman on Show event at Rawtenstall Station.

“300 people took part in our sold-out experience and enjoyed an expert-led talk on what makes this iconic engine so special, a walk through the famous corridor tender and a tour of the footplate.

“Hundreds more turned up to see her whilst she was on show in the station.

“The atmosphere was great.”

Guests were given the opportunity to learn all about the Flying Scotsman as expert talks and a meet and greet with the crew took place on Saturday. 

Chances to sit in the driver’s seat and walk through the famous corridor tender were also on offer. 

The locomotive was designed by Sir Nigel Gresley and built in Doncaster in 1923.

It was used to haul the inaugural non-stop London to Edinburgh train, in 1928.

In 1934 the locomotive was clocked at 100mph on a special test run — officially becoming the first in the UK to reach that speed. 

Mr Kelly said: “We are still overwhelmed by the amount of interest and adoration this locomotive commands, she really is the people’s engine.

“In her next event at the end of the month she will appear alongside Britain’s newest and fastest preserved steam locomotive, and star of Paddington 2, Tornado. It will be a real treat for visitors.”