UK freight haulier First/GBRf has signed a new contract with Porterbrook Leasing, allowing a further order for Class 66’s to be made from EMDD in Ontario, Canada. Building on their recent success five new Class 66’s are due to arrive in March 2008.

John Smith Managing Director at First/GBRf said: “The Class 66’s are unlikely to be the last.” this shows ongoing support for the established standard workhorse in the GB freight industry. The new locos will carry the latest First/GBRf colours and be numbered 66728-66732.

This is the first time Firs/tGBRf las leased trains from Porterbrook Leasing, until now they have been leased from HSBC Rail.

The diesel-engined Class 66s conform to all current environmental standards and are expected to have a working life of around 30 years.