20th Dec 2005 08:17
FirstGroup PLC20 December 2005 FirstGroup plc ('First' or 'The Group') Statement re: FirstGroup welcomes franchise news FirstGroup plc, the UK's largest bus and rail operator, today welcomed theannouncement by the Department for Transport (DfT) that the Group hassuccessfully pre-qualified for the South Western franchise. First is a major player in the UK Rail market. Last week the DfT announced thatFirst has been awarded the Greater Western and Thameslink/Great Northernfranchises both due to commence in April 2006. First is the only operator torun InterCity, commuter, regional, sleeper, open access and freight railservices. Commenting Moir Lockhead, Chief Executive, said: "We are delighted to have pre-qualified for the South Western franchise and lookforward to continuing to consult with stakeholders and developing excitingproposals for the future of the franchise. "We have a strong record of delivery and investment and of submitting innovativeand robust proposals to increase capacity, optimise performance and enhance thejourney experience and benefits offered to customers." Contacts FirstGroup : Rachael Borthwick, Head of Group Corporate Communications 07771 945432Stuart Bugg, Corporate Communications Manager 07734 577684 Notes to Editors: The Group currently operates First ScotRail (intercity, commuter and regionalrailways in Scotland), First Great Western and First Great Western Link(intercity and suburban service to the west country and Wales from LondonPaddington), First TransPennine Express (intercity services between the majorcities in the north of England) and Hull Trains an open access operator. FromApril 2006 the Group will operate the enlarged Greater Western and the newcombined Thameslink/Great Northern franchises. This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock ExchangeRelated Shares:
Firstgroup