Disruption of Greater Anglia services being worked by the new Stadler trains appears to be caused by signalling problems, but an investigation by Greater Anglia and Network Rail has so far failed to find the cause. Inquiries have also been launched into a near miss at a level crossing and a pantograph which struck a bridge after it had failed to come down when the train was leaving an electrified route.
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New trains for Greater Anglia will be late arriving, because their manufacturer Bombardier has encountered software problems. It is not the first time recently that trains from Bombardier have been delayed for this reason. Software problems have also affected the delivery of new trains for London Overground and Crossrail, although these earlier difficulties have been resolved. The latest hitch at Derby means that the first of 111 electric trains for Greater Anglia suburban routes are no longer expected in the New Year but will be delayed until the spring at least.
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New Intercity West Coast operator Avanti has revealed that it is planning another class of travel, which would be inserted between Standard and First. Passengers buying tickets for the intermediate 'premium economy' class would sit in first class areas but have fewer at-seat extras than first class ticket holders, with snacks, for example, rather than meals. Full details of catering on board Avanti trains have yet to be spelt out, although Avanti has said that a buffet counter or 'shop' area will be retained, as well as at-seat trolleys. One major food supplier is expected to be Marks and Spencer.
The new Avanti West Coast franchise is being officially launched today. A consortium of FirstGroup and Trenitalia won the West Coast Partnership contract, displacing Virgin and Stagecoach after more than 20 years on the route, and assumed responsibility at 02.00 yesterday morning. The new operator will provide intercity services on the West Coast Main Line, and is also expected to introduce services on HS2 under a low-risk management contract in due course, assuming that the project goes ahead.