THE Flying Scotsman will be steaming into Somerset this summer, it has been confirmed.

The iconic locomotive – number 60103 – will be hauling passenger trains on the West Somerset Railway (WSR) in June and July.

“Following agreement with the National Railway Museum and Northern Steam Operations, Flying Scotsman will arrive in West Somerset near the end of June,” a WSR spokesperson said.

“Flying Scotsman will then run services between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead on June 28, 29 and 30, and July 1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12, with static displays of the locomotive available at Bishops Lydeard on June 26, 27 and July 3 to 7, 13 and 14.

“On the days where services behind Flying Scotsman will be running, we will be offering excursions behind the Flying Scotsman for one full length journey of the line and a return journey behind one of our home fleet locomotives.”

Further evening excursions will also be available on the evenings of June 28 and 29, they added, and July 2, 8, 9, 11 and 12, for a full return trip behind the Flying Scotsman from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead with various ticket options including travel only, fish and chips, afternoon teas or on board the Quantock Belle Dining Train to enjoy a four-course meal.

“The static days offer the opportunity to see Flying Scotsman up close, including an afternoon tea in the station house garden with the locomotive as your backdrop,” the spokesperson added.

“With so many ticket options we are sure to have an affordable option for all.”

Tickets for the event will go on sale on the West Somerset Railway website at 9.30am on Wednesday, April 23. A dedicated phone line will also be open at the same time.