Flying Scotsman due to steam through Deeside today.

flying scotsman
Flying Scotsman live through Saltney at 13:37

Fans of the famous Flying Scotsman are being urged to keep off the tracks as the iconic loco thunders through Deeside today, Wednesday June 15.

The Flying Scotsman is making a return journey from Crewe to Holyhead today, with Network Rail, the British Transport Police and other industry partners warning those who are planning to catch a glimpse of the train of the dangers of straying onto the tracks

An inaugural journey from London King’s Cross to York, following a 10-year, £4.2million refurbishment by the National Railway Museum in February, was greeted by thousands of people lining the route.

However, the day was marred in parts by several dangerous incidents of trespass – where members of the public were seen walking along the tracks and taking photographs of the locomotive while other trains continued to pass on opposing lines.

All trains on the East Coast Main Line had to be stopped as a result, causing a combined total of over 8 hours of delays (516 minutes) to 59 train services, costing the taxpayer almost £60,000 in compensation which was paid to delayed passengers.

Chief inspector David Oram from the British Transport Police said:

“We understand people are excited about seeing the Flying Scotsman’s return and want them to have a great day out.

“Our priority is the safety of the public and passengers viewing and travelling on the train. The railway is a hazardous environment and we would urge people to use safe vantage points to view and take pictures of the train, stay clear of the line and not be tempted to risk their lives and the lives of others by trespassing on the tracks.

“To ensure the safety of those wanting to see the Flying Scotsman we have been in extensive planning discussions with the rail industry. Our aim is that members of the public are able to enjoy these great events by understanding the dangers, being responsible, staying within the law and most importantly – keeping safe.

“Trespassing on the tracks to view the service is not only extremely dangerous and can result in the train’s journey being delayed, but it is an offence for which the offender risks being brought before the courts, a fine of £1,000 and a criminal record. Where people are found to be trespassing, we will take proportionate and necessary action against them.”

Times:

The Flying Scotsman will leave Chester from Holyhead at 1:33pm, it will pass through Saltney junction just 4 minutes later at 1:37pm, a minute or so later the locomotive and passengers will pass through Shotton Lower Level station.

Arriving in Holyhead at 3.50pm, the return leg will see it pass through Shotton around 7:46pm en route for Chester 7:59pm and Crewe 8:26pm.

All times are approximate and subject to change at short notice.