Stephenson’s Rocket will act as the centrepiece for next year’s Great Exhibition of the North, with the historic locomotive returning to its home of Newcastle for the first time in more than 150 years.

The Rocket, which is usually displayed at the London Science Museum, will go on display in the city in which it was built, marking its first return to Newcastle since it was acquired for the nation in 1862.

Manufactured in 1829 by Robert Stephenson, the locomotive became an icon of the modern age by winning the famous Rainhill trials to become the world’s fastest locomotive at that time, averaging 13 miles per hour.

“Rocket is one of the North’s great innovations, heralding the birth of passenger railways,” said Iain Watson, director at Tyne and Wear Archives and Museums.

“Welcoming Rocket home as part of Great Exhibition of the North will help us tell the inspiring story of the North of England, including how we’ve shaped today’s world and continue to lead its future.”

The 2018 edition of the Great Exhibition of the North takes place from 22 June until September, with the event showcasing the north of England’s art, culture, design and innovation. The exhibition is split over three hubs, including the Great North Museum: Hancock, BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art and Sage Gateshead.