Driver training using Class 68s began on July 2, ahead of their introduction into traffic on Abellio Greater Anglia passenger duties between Norwich, Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft.

Direct Rail Services is supplying two Class 68s, three Mk 2f carriages and drivers to operate a second locomotive-hauled train set (RAIL 804). The DRS drivers will replace AGA drivers, and following the completion of training the ‘68s’ were due to enter traffic in mid-July. They are required as cover for a three-car Class 170/2 damaged in a level crossing accident near Thetford in April.

DRS sent 68016 Fearless and 68023 Achilles to Norfolk on July 1. They collected Riveira Trains Mk 2f Standard Opens (TSO) 5921/950 and Mk 2f Brake Standard Open (BSO) 9520 from Burton before heading to Norwich. 

  • For more on this, read RAIL 804, published tomorrow (July 6).
  • For even more on this, read RAIL 805, published on July 20.

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Author: Richard Clinnick
Head of News (Print and Digital)
[email protected]

Our Head of News, Richard joined RAIL in 2005 from local press, where he had been working since 2002. He covers all aspects of news for the magazine and website, specialising in operations and rolling stock.