THE legendary Flying Scotsman will be back on the tracks from tomorrow - and celebrating the first anniversary of its arrival at the National Railway Museum, in York.

It will be hauling a twice-daily Ride The Legend service tomorrow, and on Wednesday and Thursday, between York and Scarborough, as part of Flying Scotsman Week.

The first train is scheduled to leave York Station at 12.05pm tomorrow, a year after the rail icon arrived in the city.

It was brought to York following a huge nationwide appeal to save the iconic engine from being sold abroad.

Last year's excursions from the city to the coast were hugely popular with the public. More than 16,000 people took a trip during the 2004 season.

Andrew Scott, head of the NRM, said: "When we bought Flying Scotsman on behalf of the nation, we promised that we would do our utmost to keep it out on the main line for the public to enjoy.

"I can think of no better way to celebrate the anniversary of this great engine's arrival at the NRM, than to have it in service where people can experience the legend first hand."

Regular trips from Flying Scotsman will then resume every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout the summer from July 5 until September 8.

Mr Scott said: "The NRM is delighted to be able to offer the public the change to Ride The Legend this summer.

"Last year's trips proved tremendously popular, so much so that we have extended the season."

Also paying a surprise visit to the NRM during the half term holiday is star of the Harry Potter films, Olton Hall.

Fans of the magical film series can see the famous red locomotive, No 5972, at the museum from today until Thursday, June 2.

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

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

Updated: 09:33 Monday, May 30, 2005