In the week that Chiltern was forced to assert its continuing oversight of Evergreen 3 and Virgin went on the record as saying "We can hit 140mph to London, we just need the right track" (Birmingham Post3 March 2011), I was able to sample both companies' current provision.
Chiltern's 0812 Clubman from Snow Hill was as ever busy with commuters upon arrival but as usual there was no problem getting a table upon which to work. Though this is the first off-peak service to London, the take-up of passengers for Marylebone never seems to be particularly strong from Birmingham, making the train a very pleasant and productive way to travel.
I haver written many times in praise of the Clubman and of Chiltern's service ethic and this journey didn't disappoint. My only grouse is that it took until after Leamington for the catering trolley to work its woay through the train...
Knowing that I was returning on the 2043 Pendolino from Euston allowed me to book a £22 First advance single ticket. These tickets are amazing value at only £7 more than the Advance Standard fare as they offer first class comfort (seating, tables, power sockets), free wi-fi, food and drink, and use of Euston's & Birmingham's First Class Lounge...
One or two niggles: the power sockets weren't working in quiet coach H, the wi-fi was slow and rather erractic, and, of course, as this train stops at Milton Keynes, only coffee / tea is served on departure. Nevertheless, the Stilton and Pear roll along with the Chocolate and Butterscotch slice were worth waiting for...
So, both companies are providing the services they promise and both are striving to build upon their successes over the next year or so (assuming that Evergreen 3 is not stalled by Network Rail, and the DfT overcome their antipathy towards Virgin Trains). Who needs, or wants, HS2?
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