Virgin Trains launch Sunderland to London service

The Spirit of Sunderland leaves Sunderland at 5:40 GMT and gets into London shortly after 09:00

A new weekday direct train service from Sunderland to London has been launched.

Virgin Trains' Spirit of Sunderland service - which will also stop at Newcastle, Durham, Darlington, York and Peterborough - departs at 5:40 GMT and arrives in London shortly after 09:00.

The company has also announced a new evening service between Hull and Doncaster.

Grand Central already runs direct services between Sunderland and London.

David Horne, managing director of Virgin Trains on its east coast route, said: "This is a hugely exciting day for us as we add Sunderland to the Virgin rail map.

"Business and leisure customers have been calling for more early morning departures that will give them a longer day in London."

Harry Trueman, deputy leader of Sunderland Council, said: "We welcome this latest investment, which helps demonstrate continuing international business confidence in our city.

"Giving train passengers more flexible, regular travel options between Sunderland and King's Cross can only be good for the local economy and I hope that these new direct services will become popular."