The Flying Scotsman will no longer visit County Durham this weekend after the train operating company cancelled the planned journeys. The Weardale Railway, which had been set to host the historic steam locomotive, confirmed the cancellation was "outside of our control."
Weekend trips scrapped
Events firm Fox & Edwards had advertised a "legendary Journey" that would have taken passengers from Darlington to Bishop Auckland and then on to the Weardale Railway to Stanhope. Tickets ranged from £20 for children to £129 in first class, with journeys scheduled between Friday and Sunday.
On Wednesday, Fox & Edwards posted online that the locomotive's operator had been forced to cancel the events over the weekend. Onlookers had even purchased £2 platform tickets to watch the Flying Scotsman go by.
Refunds being issued
The Fox & Edwards statement on its website read: "It is with deepest regret that unfortunately we have to inform you that these journeys are unable to run this weekend due to an operational issue for the train operating company - who are responsible for the running of these services."
"We were notified by the operator late last night, and are taking the first opportunity to contact you. Despite every effort by ourselves and the several organisations involved, we are unable to reach a conclusion. Therefore, the operator has been left with no alternative other than to cancel these trips."
The firm said full refunds were in the process of being issued. Bosses added: "Once again, we sincerely apologise for having to share this news so close to these journeys. We hope we can welcome you in 2027 for one of our many trips."
Weardale Railway responds
Representatives of the Weardale Railway also shared their disappointment. They said online: "It is with great disappointment that we have to announce that the planned visit of the Flying Scotsman to Weardale Railway has been cancelled by the train operating company. Unfortunately, this decision is outside of our control, and despite our best efforts and preparations, the visit will no longer be going ahead."
"We understand how much excitement and anticipation there has been surrounding this special event and appreciate how disappointing this news will be for everyone who was looking forward to seeing this iconic locomotive."
"We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our incredible staff and volunteers, who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes, as well as the local businesses and communities who have shown such tremendous enthusiasm and support. Anyone who has pre-purchased platform tickets will automatically be issued with a refund within the next 7 days."
"We sincerely apologise for the disappointment and any inconvenience caused and thank everyone for their understanding and continued support of Weardale Railway. We hope there will be another opportunity to welcome this iconic locomotive to the Durham Dales in the future."
