GB Railfreight (GBRf) has clinched a four-year deal with First Capital Connect (FCC) to move Class 319 electric multiple units between stabling and maintenance depots.

The freight company will provide Train Managers (drivers) and planning services to move the units under their own power between Hornsey and designated locations.

GBRf will run up to three return journeys a week over the course of the agreement, which begins on Friday 22 September 2006.

The deal is yet another success for GBRf as it grows its rail industry services business and follows recent contract wins with First Great Western, Harsco and Serco. “Our customers, appreciate our core values of reliability, innovation and customer service,” said Phil Amos, GBRf’s Business Development Manager. “We have successfully developed a reputation for delivery and that can only be good news for the future.”

Andy Cope, FCC Engineering Director, said: “I am delighted to have this contract up and running. “Between GB Railfreight and ourselves we have proven wrong the cynics who said this move was impossible to pull off with the trains operating under their own power. As Hornsey is our major depot with all facilities this will allow us to get the benefits previously seen in the Great Northern fleet embedded into the Thameslink fleet for the benefit of our customers."