A record number of 854 freight train journeys were made in the four-week period 16 September to 13 October, shown in the latest performance figures released by First GBRf.

The new figures show a 53% increase in the amount of freight journeys being undertaken by the organisation, compared to 557 journeys for the same period in 2006-2007 and reflect an ongoing monthly rise in freight rail services.

Commenting on the report, Jonathon Moser, First GBRf’s Business Development Director said: “It’s extremely pleasing to see more FirstGBRf trains carrying more freight on the network every day and at the same time to be able to report that our profitability continues to grow as volume grows in line with our business plan. “Increased growth has also been bought about by the successful extension of train lengths on our intermodal services, and has resulted in even more HGV’s being displaced from Britain’s over-congested road system.”

Increases in rail journeys come as GBRf, established only six years ago, reports record turnover of £45 million, leading to an increase in staff members to a total of 291, more than doubling since 2004, making 2007 its most successful year yet.

The rapid growth of the organisation follows the win of a number of significant client contracts this year with major players within the coal industry, including EDF Energy and Drax Power and ongoing work with London Underground Infrastructure.   
 
Most recently it has been successfully awarded a second multi-million pound contract by Drax Power to transport more coal to the North Yorkshire-based power station, which has lead to the freight haulier ordering a further five Class 66 locomotives and more highly efficient track-friendly HYA coal wagons. This will take the total number of Class 66 locomotives in service to thirty two. Other new contracts within the coal market sector are expected to commence in the first half of 2008.