Chiltern are very proud about what they and Wabtec have achieved in refurbishing the former Wrexham and Shropshire stock. I will cover the engineering details in a separate post but suffice to say that the 'power operated sliding plug doors' actually enhance the look of the external bodywork of the set.
Inside, the basic Wrexham and Shropshire colour scheme and layout has been kept, meaning that the generous table availability and spacious leg room is still there for both standard and Business Zone passengers (and, of course, the tables are largely aligned with the windows!). In standard class, one toilet in each carriage has been removed to allow a luggage / standing vestibule to be created to ease speed of loading at stations.
Other improvements include renewed lighting, improved WiFi, controlled emission toilets, and coat hooks. I am told that the Expresso Bar will definitely be equipped to take cards from Monday, and that the Standard Class will continue to be served by a trolley for those who don't wish to leave their seats (Business Zone passengers have a dedicated host).
Chiltern expect that the first revenue run of the set on Monday will be the 06.19 from Moor Street to Marylebone, followed by the 08.37 from Marylebone to Moor Street, then the 10.55 from Moor Street to Marylebone, ending with the 16.46 from Marylebone to Moor Street.
Don't forget that the 10.55 has £25 Super Off-peak return fare availability and that the Business Zone costs a further £10 per journey. Can't think of a better way to spend a sunny morning & afternoon!
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