THE appeal to restore one of the world's most iconic locomotives has now steamed past a major milestone.

The National Railway Museum launched a £250,000 appeal earlier this year to put the Flying Scotsman back on the tracks.

And now donations to the Steam Our Scotsman have passed the £100,000 mark.

The York museum saved No 4472 for the nation in 2004 and is currently asking the public to help the restoration by sponsoring various vital components.

So far it brought forward many people with a love for the engine - including Wendy Dashwood-Quick the Essex-based great granddaughter of driver William Worboys who regularly drove the train between London and Edinburgh in the pre-war years.

William, who lived in London and had nine children, later became a minor celebrity of his day when he starred in an Ovaltine advertising campaign.

"As soon as I found out about the SOS Appeal I just had to get involved as I have such a strong personal connection with Scotsman. For me and many others it is so much more than just a machine," said Wendy.

The quest to bring Scotsman back to Britain's tracks has also struck a chord in a whole new generation of enthusiasts. Fundraisers at the NRM have been overwhelmed by the support received from young members of the public.

Six-year-old Harry England from Norfolk organised a railway themed café day at his local village hall to raise money, while waterbaby Zak Parlby, also aged six, from Whitby, completed a sponsored swim.

Senior development officer Fran Critchley said: "We've been amazed by the support received and our next target is the half way mark.

"It just goes to show that even in today's economic climate people are willing to commit to the causes they care deeply about."

To donate, visit www.flyingscotsman.org.uk, contact 01904 685707 or email sos.appeal@nrm.org.uk