Officials from Network Rail and British Transport Police have issued strong safety warnings to train enthusiasts ahead of this weekend’s visit to the region by Flying Scotsman.

The world’s most famous locomotive is heading to the region on Saturday at the head of a breakfast special train from Norwich to Ipswich and back.

Thousands of rail enthusiasts are expected to try to see it and take photographs as it travels down the main line – but this has prompted fears of trespassers getting on to the tracks after serious incidents last year.

Special viewing areas have been set up at Norwich station, but people looking to see the train elsewhere and unable to get to Norwich are being told to stay off the tracks and the railway boundary.

Extra British Transport Police officers will be on patrol – and they will consider prosecuting anyone found trespassing in a bid to get better pictures.

Inspector Stephen Webster, from British Transport Police, said: “I hope that those wanting to see this iconic train have a fantastic day.

“I will have extra British Transport Police patrols along the route and would like to remind people not to trespass on the railway as it is extremely dangerous and is also a criminal offence.

“This includes standing on railway crossings and anywhere within the boundary fencing and I have instructed patrols to deal positively with any persons who break the law.

“BTP would also like to remind drone operators that flying within 50m of the railway is an offence and we have secured two recent prosecutions against persons ignoring these rules. Please be safe and have an enjoyable time.”

Meliha Duymaz, Newtork Rail’s route managing director for Anglia, said: “It’s great that people want to come and see Flying Scotsman but it’s important for them to stay safe.

“Flying Scotsman will not be the only train running on the main line this week – a full service will be in operation with trains travelling at speeds of up to 100mph, so it is vital that rail fans stay in safe areas and don’t trespass on the line and put themselves and others at serious risk.”

We shall be covering the visit and would be delighted to see any of your pictures – taken legally and safely – on our iWitness pages.