The Legendary LNER class A3 Pacific Engine known to all of us as "The Flying Scotsman" arrived a week before it was due to start service to enable it to test the line. The iconic engine then stayed in the sheds until it was officially welcomed on the line at a Civic Reception at Minehead Station on Tuesday 5th September 2017 attended by the above dignitaries.
The service has been a sell out with everyone wanting to ride on this beautifully restored engine.
The train will run from Tuesday September 5th to Tuesday September 12th (except September 8th) twice a day with a load of pre-booked passengers (now fully booked). There will also be evening runs which are also fully booked from Bishops Lydeard to Blue Anchor On September 6th, 9th, 10th and 11th.
Another non-stop train will also be operating on the line with the Flying Scotsman and passengers will transfer onto this at Minehead on each trip.
The alternative train will be hauled by a pool of crack locomotives including the West Country class Braunton - renamed Lord Dowding and former GWR engines Raveningham Hall, Dinmore Manor and Foxcote Manor.
During the historic visit by the Flying Scotsman the railway will also maintain a full service of stopping trains.
In the right hand picture are Councillor Andrew Hadley portfolio holder for Tourism and Economic Growth for West Somerset Council opposite the Mayor of Minehead Councillor Jean Parbrook who attended this function with her husband Councillor Andrew Parbrook.