Record-breaking loco named after RAF Memorial Flight

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight locomotive was named by TV presenter Carol Vorderman at the National Railway Museum in York.

Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster planes flew overhead as the power car was unveiled in front of thousands.

The East Coast locomotive now carries a specially-designed commemorative livery featuring the aircraft and insignia of the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

The design features the three aircraft, the RAF roundel, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight insignia and Lest We Forget motto.

It also features a pair of oak leaf cast-iron plates commemorating its record-holding status.

The locomotive holds the UK national speed record for electric trains, achieved at Stoke Bank, north of Peterborough, on September 17 1989.

It was unveiled at a ceremony to open Railfest 2012, a nine-day celebration of Britain’s railways at the Museum.

Ms Vorderman said: “It’s a privilege to be asked to name any train. But to be asked to unveil this particular East Coast locomotive, named Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, is a deeply moving honour.”