The Mid Hants Railway was a buzz of excitement this week as guests awaited the arrival of Ex-LNER A3 No. 60103 Flying Scotsman to Alresford to kick off its visit to The Watercress Line, but first, time to reopen the line to Alton.

Arguably the most famous steam locomotive is visiting the railway from 14th February until the 8th March 2020.

Experiences while the locomotive includes the opportunity to ride behind the engine, and also to take control of the locomotive during her stay.

Alan Titchmarsh was also on hand to reopen the line to Alton, after a year without trains being able to travel to Alton as an old road bridge was replaced.

What did the officials say?

Watercress Line Director Simon Baggott said:

“It’s been a long time in the planning but we are delighted to welcome Flying Scotsman to the Mid Hants Railway. It was a landmark moment as she travelled across the new Whitedown Lane bridge, surrounded by detonators and 300 local school children waving flags before arriving into Alton Station and breaking a banner to officially reopen the line.

“We are grateful to the National Railway Museum for giving us the opportunity to run such a unique and historic event to operate and display such a famous locomotive.”

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