Channel Tunnel operator Eurotunnel has reported a strong start to 2014.

New figures released by the company revealed that during the first quarter of the year, total revenue increased by eight per cent compared to the same period in 2013. This was driven by growth in its rail freight and ferry services.

Meanwhile, Eurostar trains welcomed over two million passengers during this period, a rise of three per cent. In addition, truck shuttle traffic jumped by four per cent to reach more than 347,000 vehicles.

Jacques Gounon, chairman and chief executive of Eurotunnel, stated: "There is a very positive trend marking the start of the year. The upturn in the UK economy is lifting the Eurotunnel Group's activity."

The service is due to celebrate 20 years of business this month. It carries the Eurostar high-speed trains between Paris and Brussels to London, as well as shuttle services for cars, coaches and freight trucks.