The first scheduled UK main-line service operated by a steam locomotive in 50 years was introduced on Valentine’s Day, when Tornado 60163 pulled a train carrying hundreds of steam enthusiasts along the Settle to Carlisle line (departing from Appleby at 8.25am).

Organised by Northern Rail, Network Rail and the Friends of Settle and Carlisle, the service ran for three days, making two return journeys each day between Appleby and Skipton.

Paul Barnfield, regional director of Northern Railway, said: “It was great to see so many people supporting this historic venture. We always knew that the first time-tabled steam services in the UK for 50 years would be extremely popular, but the demand for tickets was phenomenal.”

The temporary return of steam power was to celebrate the re-opening of the Settle-Carlisle line, which was partially closed following landslides in February 2016.