Harborough residents invited to name a new train

The new Intercity bi-mode bullet trains.

People across Harborough are being invited by East Midlands Railway to name that train.

The major rail operator is keen to come up with an imaginative name for its new eco-friendly Intercity bi-mode ‘bullet’ trains.

The Class 810 trains are set to enter service in 2022 and will serve towns and cities on the Midland Main Line.

EMR is asking local people to be “part of the excitement and name the new state-of-the-art fleet”.

The name must reflect the railway heritage in the region or showcase the character and pride of people in the East Midlands.

Rachel Turner, EMR’s Head of New Trains, said: “Everyone at EMR is excited about the introduction of our new state-of-the-art bi-mode trains.

“They will enable us to provide our passengers with quicker and more comfortable journeys between the East Midlands and London.

“But before they come into service, we need help from the public to name them.”

She added: “We are keen that the name reflects the proud railway heritage that is so strong in this region.

“But as well as highlighting the special history of East Midlands, we are also looking for a name which showcases the advanced technological side of the trains.

“If you have any ideas then please take part.”

The new cutting edge Hitachi trains are inspired by advanced Japanese bullet train technology.

They are quieter and greener, meaning lower carbon emissions and a better environment for passengers, stations and communities along the route.

They can use new overhead electric lines.

So they will take advantage of the £1.5 billion Midland Main Line upgrade or run under diesel power where overhead lines are not in place.

The 33 new trains are set to be built at Hitachi’s £82 million factory in Newton Aycliffe, Co Durham, using parts from suppliers around the UK.

Jim Brewin, UK Country Lead of Hitachi Rail, said: “Hitachi is delighted to be building new trains for EMR passengers.

“I’m excited to see the people of the East Midlands and beyond being challenged to come up with a new name for the fleet.”

If you would like to suggest a name for the new Class 810 trains then visit: www.eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk/nameourtrain and complete the form by Friday June 26.