STEAM train enthusiasts are in for a treat tomorrow when the world famous locomotive Tornado will travel through St Helens to Liverpool for the first time.

The freshly painted train can be seen just after 1pm and 6pm on its return journey on Saturday, September 19.

A spokesperson for the tour operator said the Tornado will cross "St Helens Junction on the outward journey and goes through St Helens Central on the return".

Steaming from Darlington, where the engine was built and completed in 2008, the train stops for passengers in Yorkshire before crossing the Pennines bound for Lime Street.

While Tornado may look like something from a bygone age, it is in fact only 12 years old and is famed for being the only main line steam engine built in the UK since the 1960s.

The locomotive has made history running more than 100,000 miles, hauling royal trains and reaching 100mph - the only steam train to have reached that speed in over 50 years.

Tornado is also recognisable from Top Gear special ‘Race to the North’ when Jeremy Clarkson took to the shovel and from Paddington 2.

The steam train bearing the name ‘Ticket to Ride’ will arrive into Lime Street around 1.30pm, passengers will have just over four hours to explore the wonderful city and docks before Tornado takes the train up the steep cutting out of the station for the journey home.

For the first time, Tornado will also haul a train starting from Liverpool, allowing locals to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of yesteryear on a railtour to York on ‘The Jorvik Express’.

Leaving on Saturday 15th May 2021.

For those wanting a little luxury, First Class seating is available, or for a fully indulgent experience, Premier Dining offers silver service at your table for a cooked breakfast and sumptuous four course supper on the return.

Prices start at £109 for a return day trip.

For tickets and more information please see a1steam.com/jorvik or call our booking office on 01325 488215.