Jan 2015: Summary
VivaRail are taking their first D78 underground stock tomorrow, following withdrawal earlier this year (by new Bombardier built S-Stock). The first D78 unit will be converted immediately for testing in the summer. In time, it'll be used on Northern services as a Diesel unit (3-Car). We've posted about the conversion of these units not too long ago and will try to keep you updated throughout the conversion.
On our Twitter feed you can see photos of the Class 37 preparing to haul 90012 to it's exam at Crewe & followed by a repaint. It went there this week. Also as an update over at GreaterAnglia, the Pretendolino is believed to almost be ready for service (can't confirm though) and is likely to be ready for use towards the end of this month.
Continuing on the topic of AGA, 12013 is the first MK3 coach to be stripped of its interior in favour of refurbishment. This will provide Plug sockets on top of new seat covers and a more modern interior.
Today, EuroStar services were delayed due to a vehicle fire in the channel tunnel. Last week it was announced that David Horne, the current director at EastMidsTrains, will move to Virgin East Coast at beginning of the franchise.
Finally, Abellio Greater Anglia Mark 3 Coach 12056 was hauled by 47810 to repaint yesterday. Meanwhile, staying on the topic of Abellio, 90012 is the latest Class 90 to go to Crewe for an exam prior to repaint into AGA livery. -H