As of yesterday (March 2nd), Virgin Trains has taken over the running of the East Coast franchise between London and Edinburgh.

To mark the occasion, rail minister Claire Perry visited King’s Cross Station to see the first service with Virgin Trains East Coast livery set off, as well as celebrate the launch of its £3 million passenger fund, which will allow people who live along the route to make their own suggestions for improvements.

Ms Perry said: “Today is the start of a new chapter for the East Coast franchise. Passengers will benefit from thousands of extra seats, new connections and improved services between London and Scotland. The deal also means more than £3 billion will be returned to taxpayers.”
As part of the franchising agreement, Virgin Trains East Coast will provide an additional 75 station calls every day, thanks to 23 extra services to and from London. Virgin Trains will run the route until 2023.