EWS is further developing its European and railway support businesses by offering rail haulage for freight trains through the Channel Tunnel.

In line with the Government's initiative to promote open access through the Channel Tunnel, EWS will provide traction services and resources for other operators in either direction between Folkestone in Britain and Calais in France. These services will be at market rates and on reasonable commercial terms.

Stuart Boner, Managing Director of EWS Network, said: "By offering this package we can increase the range of services open to freight operators and customers, and grow the international rail freight market between the UK and mainland Europe. On mainland Europe, freight users will be able to choose between established national rail operators or companies such as Euro Cargo Rail, EWS's mainland Europe rail service provider which continues to expand its services in France."

EWS Network is a new operating division of EWS, providing services for the logistics sector and the rail industry, and will be formally launched on Monday 8 January 2007.