Rail industry data reveals East Coast Main Line’s most reliable train company

Hull Trains is the most reliable long-distance train operator on the East Coast Main Line, according to new rail industry figures.

An independent report from Network Rail showed that the Hull-based company provided improved periods of train service performance over the last two months.

It found that 95% of Hull Trains’ services ran as scheduled during Period 4 (June 24 to July 20).

Combined with the 96% figure recorded in Period 3 (May 27 to June 23), it represents a stronger period of reliability after adverse weather and the ‘Beast from the East’ impacted the company’s performance earlier this year.

Hull Trains MD Louise Cheeseman, appointed in June after taking over the role on a temporary basis, said: “Our team has worked tirelessly to address the challenges we faced earlier in the year to deliver consistent levels of reliability.

“Whilst performance has improved significantly over the last two periods, we are not complacent, recognising the need to remain focused on working with our train maintainers and Network Rail to improve things further.”

She continued: “As one of the smallest train operating companies in the UK running 92 services a week, our team works hard to ensure our trains are continually maintained and running on time.

“These latest figures reflect a tremendous amount of effort from everyone at Hull Trains and I would like to thank our loyal customers for their kind feedback and support – both of which are greatly appreciated.”

Since March, Hull Trains has served a record number of passengers as people flocked to London during the warmer weather.

The company will introduce a £60m fleet of five new state-of-the-art-trains next year, ramping up capacity by 20%.