The Flying Scotsman steam engine leaving East Lancashire Railway in Bury, Britain, last month.

One of the world's most famous steam engines, it is set to return after a decade of restoration and more than 80 years since it became the first locomotive to reach the speed of 100 miles per hour (160kmh).

The venerable engine, which has toured both the United States and Australia since it was retired from service, made a series of short test runs yesterday, ahead of a programme of heritage journeys this year on Britain's main lines.