Whilst the Great Gathering event was taking place in York, another ex-LNER locomotives were unable to join in with the celeberations.  The Flying Scotsman, the world’s most famous steam locomotive could be seen in the NRM workshops.  Withdrawn from service in 2006; the Flying Scotsman has been undergoing one of the most controversial restorations of modern times.

Numerous problems have been encountered and the predicted return to service pushed back as a result.  Current estimates predict a return no earlier than 2015 with costs rising alarmingly (so far around £3 million has been spent, plus another £2 million to purchase it in the first place).  The Flying Scotsman’s restoration causes quite a debate within the heritage railway community, all I’d like to say on the matter is that I hope to see it running again some time in the future, so that it has all been worthwhile.

Another Gresley designed locomotive could also be found in the NRM York – V2 class 4771 Green Arrow.  Restoration of 4771 will only be considered once 4472 has been completed.  So it will be some time before we see this popular locomotive running too!

To read about other exhibits to be found in the National Railway Museum during this visit in 2013, please click here.