Tyne Tees Television reporter Bill Hamilton interviews Alan Francis Pegler, owner of the Flying Scotsman steam locomotive, on the platform of Newcastle Central Station. They discuss the current running of the locomotive on the London to Edinburgh route, and the romance of steam over diesel. They also talk about the current British Rail modernisation programme and the cost of running the engine. This report was transmitted 1 May 1968. The report begins with reporter Bill Hamilton asking Alan...

Tyne Tees Television reporter Bill Hamilton interviews Alan Francis Pegler, owner of the Flying Scotsman steam locomotive, on the platform of Newcastle Central Station. They discuss the current running of the locomotive on the London to Edinburgh route, and the romance of steam over diesel. They also talk about the current British Rail modernisation programme and the cost of running the engine. This report was transmitted 1 May 1968. The report begins with reporter Bill Hamilton asking Alan Pegler if this is a memorable day for him? He replies that today is the 40th anniversary of the Flying Scotsman making its first non-stop run from London to Edinburgh taking eight-and-a-quarter hours. Bill comments that as diesel trains have an advantage over steam, what can he suggest that steam can do to remain on the lines? For Alan it’s the nostalgia as there is no romance with diesel as there is with steam. Alan admits that it is very exciting guiding the Flying Scotsman over the diamond crossings into Newcastle. Alan has a long term contract with British Rail (BR) to keep the Flying Scotsman on the line. He is pleased to know that BR will be honouring that contract in full with the Scotsman running until at least the spring of 1971. At this time he’s not sure if they will negotiate a new contact when this one ends. Alan is asked about BR’s policy of pushing steam trains off the line. He replies by saying that it is easy to criticise this decision. But if they want to bring in a program of modernisation he does understand their situation. Bill says that steam is a good advertisement for BR with many rail enthusiasts. However, Alan replies that this is not the modern image of Britain BR wants to project around the world. With regards the Flying Scotsman itself, Alan says that in the past six years he has spent over £25,000 keeping it in running order. He originally paid £3000 to buy the train, but thinks the expense is justified as the train gives pleasure to so many people.