The Mallard was, and still is, the fastest steam locomotive in the world.

It was designed by Sir Nigel Gresley, an engineering genius who had already produced a world-beater in The Flying Scotsman.

The period between the two world wars was all about pushing the boundaries of technology and breaking records. International rivalry ruled the waves – and the skies - and the railways!

Germany was desperate to show the world the efficiency of the Nazi regime, and had smashed the record for the world's fastest steam engine with their Flying Hamburger, basing the design on Bugatti racing cars.

To Gresley it became a matter of national pride to take back the record. He built and carefully prepared the streamlined Mallard – The Blue Streak – and finally, on 3 July 1938, Mallard reached a top speed of 202kmph (126mph), claiming an unassailable place in the railway hall of fame. Its record is unlikely ever to be challenged.