TICKETS for some journeys on the world’s most famous steam locomotive the Flying Scotsman sold out within hours of the West Somerset Railway (WSR) making them available.

Several other Flying Scotsman services quickly saw ‘limited availability’ as demand from enthusiasts was so great the WSR’s website and dedicated telephone line went down within 20 minutes.

The tickets went on sale at 9.30 am on Wednesday (April 23) with the WSR offering six Flying Scotsman packages:

Prices for an adult journey on the Flying Scotsman ranged from £50 to £150, while tickets for the static displays have been priced at £20.

A WSR spokesperson said: “Thank you to everybody who booked their Flying Scotsman tickets, and a special thank you for sticking with us through some technical glitches.

“We really appreciate your support and understanding.

“One of our Flying Scotsman services has now sold out and some of our timings have limited availability.”

The WSR also warned people not to purchase tickets for the Flying Scotsman from unofficial sources, only book via its website or dedicated telephone number 01643 870103, which is open from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm.

The Flying Scotsman is due to arrive in West Somerset near the end of June and will haul WSR services between Minehead and Bishops Lydeard on June 28, 29, and 30, and July 1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12.

The static displays will be on June 26 and 27 and July 3 to 7, 13, and 14.

The Flying Scotsman’s tour has been arranged with the National Railway Museum and Northern Steam Operations as part of this year’s Railway 200 national celebrations.