Abellio Greater Anglia (AGA) has unveiled a raft of new weekday services which will provide more trains and seats for passengers using Stansted airport.

Eight extra trains are to be added to services in each direction between 9.30am and 10pm, in addition to the existing services operated by CrossCountry, meaning passengers will benefit from a half-hourly service to and from the airport.

As a result, the number of off-peak trains running between Cambridge and the airport will double, providing 1,700 seats a day.

The deal was made possible after the government reached a new franchise agreement with AGA that will also provide refreshed rolling stock on the Great Eastern Main Line between Norwich, Ipswich, Colchester and London. 

Passengers will benefit from a range of improvements, including new seat covers, new carpets, better lighting and at seat power sockets.

Speaking at the launch of the new service, rail minister Clare Perry said: "This deal is great news for passengers along this important route as it will deliver more services and more seats which will make travelling to the airport more comfortable."