FIRST ‘777’ ENTERS SERVICE: After reaching agreement with unions over their operation, Stadler-built Class 777 No. 777049 became the first of the new Merseyrail fleet to enter service on January 23. The four-car unit made its public debut on the 10.50 Liverpool Central-Kirkby service and is seen shortly after arriving at its destination amid much interest from photographers and local rail users. Units will initially be introduced on the Kirkby line, with all 53 of the trains, which are owned by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, expected to be in operation within the next 12 months – allowing the withdrawal of aged Class 507 and 508 EMUs.
GRAEME PICKERING
A close-up of the landslip on the embankment under the down slow line near Hook.
NETWORK RAIL