Delayed train fleet set to start running

The bi-mode trains run on either diesel or electric power

The first trains of a new fleet connecting Leicester, Derby, Nottingham and Sheffield with London are set to come into service after their introduction was initially delayed.

East Midlands Railway (EMR) received the first two trains from the Class 810 Aurora fleet in August, which allowed drivers and crew to begin training.

The fleet was originally expected in 2022 but faced teething problems during testing, with EMR then hoping to run the new trains from May 2025.

Some trains from the new Class 810 Aurora fleet are now set to be put into use on services in the coming weeks and will complete a phased rollout through 2026.

A "small number" of EMR services will run with fewer carriages during the transition and some services will not have seat reservations, EMR said.

A spokesperson added "key services" would be prioritised during the transition phase to minimise disruption.

East Midlands Railway says the new trains will improve facilities and comfort for passengers

The Intercity fleet of 33 five-carriage trains is being built by Hitachi Rail in County Durham.

They were ordered to replace diesel trains introduced in 2004 and will run off electric power from overhead lines between London St Pancras and a junction to the south of Leicester.

Diesel engines will power the trains elsewhere on the network.

The Class 810 units are similar to existing trains running on the East Coast and Great Western main lines.

As well as new-look interiors, they feature extra seating, air conditioning, free wi-fi, plug sockets and improved information screens.