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Wednesday 14 Jun 2023

Network Rail welcomes Flying Scotsman to Portsmouth and Salisbury this June as the iconic locomotive celebrates its 100th anniversary

Region & Route:

Southern

| Southern: Wessex

Members of the public are being reminded to stay safe and vigilant as parts of the South West Mainline will be greeted by a fleeting visit from Flying Scotsman locomotive this month.

Network Rail is urging the public and train enthusiasts to remain safe as the iconic Flying Scotsman locomotive passes through Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey, and parts of South West London.

Spectators should watch from a safe location, not trespass onto the track and take care when passing on level crossings as these are still live and functioning parts of the railway.

Network Rail is advising the public to:

• Stay behind the yellow line on the platforms at all times.
• Remain aware of their surroundings and stay away from the platform edge.
• Obey instructions given to them by rail staff, for their safety, as other trains will still be in operation.

Eric Woodward, Network Rail’s head of safety, health & environment on the Wessex route, said: “It’s great to be able to celebrate the centenary of the iconic Flying Scotsman and we’re pleased to be able to share the experience of this fabulous locomotive passing through our Wessex route.

“The safety of our passengers, staff and the public is always our number one priority so we are urging anyone intending to watch or capture Flying Scotsman travelling through our region to please stay safe and vigilant.

“In particular, please do not overcrowd level crossings or platforms and remember that trespassing on the railway is a criminal offence, please do follow any safety instructions from railway staff.”

Judith McNicol, director of the National Railway Museum, said: “We are delighted that Flying Scotsman, the world’s most famous steam locomotive, is able to operate a series of mainline steam tours to celebrate its centenary year. However, we urge everyone to make sure they view Flying Scotsman from a safe vantage point to ensure this is an enjoyable and safe experience for all.

“Please ensure that you follow all instructions from station staff and British Transport Police, and never trespass on the railway.”

Jane Lupson, South Western Railway's safety and security director, said: “We know just how much everyone looks forward to seeing Flying Scotsman and we are very pleased to have our network taking part in its centenary celebrations.

“It’s important to celebrate the occasion and view Flying Scotsman safely however, so we are asking our customers and members of the public to remember the rules of the railway.

“If you are viewing the locomotive at our stations you must stay behind the yellow line at all times, listen to our station staff and never go near the track - which on the vast majority of our network is electrified 24 hours a day.”

Inspector Alex Yates, of British Transport Police, added: “Seeing Flying Scotsman is an exciting event on any occasion and even more so as it celebrates its 100^th anniversary. Our priority is always the safety of everyone viewing and travelling on the train, and our officers will be out and about across the Wessex route.

“Please remember to use safe vantage points to view and take pictures of the train, stay clear of the line, and do not risk serious injury or death by trespassing on the tracks.

“It is important to remember that the railway is an extremely hazardous environment and those caught trespassing or obstructing trains can expect to be prosecuted. I’d ask anyone with any concerns to speak to an officer or text us on 61016.”