LINING platforms and level crossings, they waited expectantly.

Then in a flash it was over, as the legendary Flying Scotsman steamed past, back on the tracks following its winter break.

The iconic locomotive took its maiden journey of 2005 as part of a series of Ride The Legend trips to celebrate the first anniversary of its rescue.

It is 12 months since the York-based National Railway Museum (NRM) bought the engine and brought it back to York - saving it for the nation.

The twice-daily return service from York to Scarborough, which continues today and tomorrow, is the prelude to a summer season of journeys between July and September and is part of Flying Scotsman week.

Last year, more than 16,000 enthusiasts took a trip on the Scotsman - and yesterday's journey was no exception with carriages packed out with enthusiasts.

Bob Lawrence, of York, who was on the train, said: "The train was running well. It was a minute or two late, but it was not a problem. It is such a beautiful journey.

"It is the first time I have been on Flying Scotsman and I enjoyed the journey. It is a great, legendary locomotive.

"It was very busy on the train, and the platform at York was packed out with people to see the locomotive arrive and set off. As we went through the level crossings people were there waiting to see it."

Earlier this week, NRM head Andrew Scott said he could think of no better way to celebrate the anniversary of the engine's arrival at the Leeman Road-based museum than to have it in service so it could be experienced first-hand.

Flying Scotsman will run every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout the summer from July 5 until September 8.

Tickets can be booked in person at the National Railway Museum, by phone on 08707 01 02 08 (8.30am to 8.30pm) or online at www.nrm.org.uk

For more details, telephone the Flying Scotsman information line on 0870 421 4472.

Updated: 10:34 Wednesday, June 01, 2005