PASSENGERS on GNER services which break down will soon hear a familiar cry - "Thunderbirds are go!"

That's because rail freight operator EWS has signed a new deal with York-based GNER for the hire of a series of high-speed Thunderbird rescue locomotives.

GNER chiefs hope the locomotives will help improve the reliability of its services, as the Thunderbirds will be able to reach the scene of breakdowns on the East Coast Main Line.

The contract will see four new modern Class 67 locomotives replacing older rescue locomotives, for recovery operations.

The replacement locomotives will be based at Doncaster, Newcastle, Edinburgh Waverley, and London King's Cross.

It is hoped they will cut down on the problems caused when a breakdown blocks the line, halting other services and causing widespread delays for passengers.

The agreement follows the completion of GNER's £30 million three-year programme to improve the reliability of all electric locomotives used on its high-speed services.

Christopher Garnett, GNER chief executive, said: "Our trains are more reliable than ever, but it is vital that we have back-up to respond quickly if a train becomes unable to move under its own power. Having a fleet of high-speed diesel locomotives, always on stand-by, cuts delays and helps us to maintain the quality of our service.

"The locomotives will be driven by GNER drivers and there has been excellent co-operation with EWS during the training programme."

Philip Mengel, EWS chief executive, said: "EWS is delighted to be working with GNER to provide modern and reliable traction for these Thunderbird locomotives.

"The Class 67 will provide a quicker response time to recovery operations, which in turn substantially reduces delays to GNER's passengers and helps improve the reliability and performance of the overall rail network."

The new contract runs until April 2005, the end of GNER's current franchise.

Updated: 09:08 Friday, May 23, 2003