IT has taken years of planning and development. Now rail passengers have taken their first chance to travel aboard some of the newest trains on the rail network.
York passengers who use TransPennine Express services were able to ride on First Group's new Desiro train - a £250 million investment by the company in rail travel for the north.
A fleet of 51 trains is being purpose-built for the TransPennine network and aims to transform the quality of service, improve reliability and offer passengers the most modern on-train environment.
The 100mph train set off on one of its first journeys from York Station for Newcastle, yesterday, where it was waved on its way by Lord Mayor of York, Coun Janet Hopton, and Vernon Barker, managing director of TransPennine Express.
The Pennine Class 185 is the first diesel version of the proven Siemens Desiro electric train design.
The trains have air conditioning, intercity train quality seating, including a first class section, on-board security cameras and easier access for disabled people.
There is space for two wheelchairs and a wheelchair accessible toilet.
A new global positioning information system will also keep passengers up to date throughout their journey.
Equipped with three Cummins diesel engines, the trains will have excellent hill-climbing abilities and much improved reliability - ideal on the cross-Pennine route.
TransPennine Express runs three trains an hour from York to provide direct services to Leeds, Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Airport and Liverpool.
Scarborough, Middlesbrough and Newcastle are all served by regular, direct TransPennine Express services from York.
Mr Barker said: "These new trains are real evidence of significant investment in transport in the north of England providing a real boost to passenger travel.
"Passengers will be travelling aboard modern, more spacious and reliable trains built to modern day standards."
The new trains will be progressively introduced over the next few months and the full fleet is due to be in service by the end of January next year.
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