The Flying Scotsman turns 100 in February 2023 and Hornby will take part in a year-long programme of events and activities.

Model railways manufacturer Hornby has been announced as the lead sponsor for the year of centenary celebrations. Hornby has had a relationship with the famous train since 1927, when it introduced the first ‘0’ gauge tinplate model carrying the name Flying Scotsman. In 1969, it introduced its Flying Scotsman model and since then there have been almost 50 versions of the iconic engine produced. It remains one of Hornby’s most popular model locomotives.

Further details of the centenary plans will be revealed later in the year, but will involve the publication of Flying Scotsman and the Best Birthday Ever, a new book by Michael Morpurgo, illustrated by Michael Foreman in October 2022, and the chance to see Flying Scotsman at several locations across the country, beginning with Swanage Railway in Dorset this October and at the National Railway Museum in York and Locomotion in Shildon in 2023.

Judith McNicol, director of the National Railway Museum, said: “Flying Scotsman is one of the world’s most recognisable steam locomotives and still draws excited crowds wherever it goes. It is one of the jewels in the crown of our world-class collection. Flying Scotsman and the Best Birthday Ever from Michael Morpurgo and Michael Foreman is a beautifully-written companion to the key moments of Flying Scotsman’s history and thanks to Hornby’s generous support, we will deliver an exciting programme of national events and activities throughout 2023.”

Simon Kohler, Marketing & Development director at Hornby commented: “Hornby’s association with Flying Scotsman goes back almost 100 years, so it seemed only fitting that we should provide our support in celebrating the centenary of such a national icon. I would like to thank the National Railway Museum for giving Hornby the opportunity to do so.”

Hornby’s collection of Flying Scotsman SKUs can be viewed here.

Simon added: “I have been fascinated with this icon of steam since the late 1960s when, one evening, I stood on Wellingborough Station and saw the true magnificence of the locomotive. Resplendent in its LNER apple green livery, I was simply captivated by the amazing spectacle, and that memory has stayed with me ever since.”

Railway enthusiasts share a special bond with Hornby, as demonstrated by the success of TV show Hornby: A Model World; series one was the second highest series launch on Yesterday ever, and will be followed by series two in 2023.