THE FIRST of nine ex-LNER HSTs was expected to enter service with East Midlands Railway by the end of February. The sets, withdrawn by LNER at the end of 2019, are being introduced as they offer better accessibility than EMR’s current 2+8 HSTs.
Six Angel Trains and three Porterbrook sets are being transferred in 2+8 formation. After going into storage following their withdrawal by LNER, two sets at a time are receiving modifications at Neville Hill depot in Leeds prior to entering service with EMR. This includes some corrosion rectification, application of EMR branding, finishing works on the Passenger Information Systems and minor modifications to the brake distributors, reflecting that with EMR they will do less high-speed running and have more frequent stops than they did when working for LNER.
A second set was due to follow into service shortly after, with sets to be introduced broadly in pairs in a programme running until the spring. All will remain in the red livery they wore when operating with LNER, although there are hopes one of the three Porterbrook sets might receive EMR colours.
‘180s’ LATER THIS YEAR
EMR also has three 2+6 HSTs owned by Angel Trains. These are to remain in service until t…
