Summer journey north planned forrailway museum's star locomotive

THE world-famous Mallard locomotive is leaving its Yorkshire home this summer after more than 30 years to go on display in the North East.

The record-breaking engine will leave the National Railway Museum (NRM) in York to be taken to the sister attraction, Locomotion, in Shildon, County Durham.

It is the first time that No 4468 Mallard has left the York museum to go on long-term display elsewhere since its arrival in 1975.

Mallard will be pulled along the East Coast main line to Shildon in June by Tornado, Britain’s first main line steam engine to be built in nearly 50 years at a cost of 3m.

The NRM’s new director, Steve Davies, said: “Mallard has always been a favourite with our visitors since it first featured on the museum floor in 1975 – but now we think its time to share one of the jewels in our crown with our sister museum, Locomotion.

“Both museums are very excited by the move – especially as Mallard will be pulled to Locomotion by Tornado. It’ll be quite a sight to see two of the most of famous locomotives in the world heading up the East Coast main line together.”

Mallard, which remains one of the world’s most iconic steam locomotives, was designed by Sir Nigel Gresley and built by the London and North Eastern Railway Company in Doncaster.

The A4 Pacific locomotive gained a global reputation after breaking the world speed record for steam traction by reaching 126mph on July 3, 1938.

The space currently occupied by Mallard at the NRM in York will be taken by the South Eastern & Chatham Railway’s steam locomotive, No 737, and the Pullman Car Company’s First Class carriage, Topaz.

Mr Davies added: “We haven’t decided when Mallard will return to York, but in the meantime we’re sure that our visitors will enjoy Number 737’s elaborate livery and the luxurious look of Topaz.”

Visitors to the NRM will be able to witness Tornado and Mallard leaving York on June 23, although full details of the departure will be announced nearer the time.