NEW trains with easier customer access and first class facilities could be running on the Lakes Line by December 2006.

Speaking at the annual meeting of the Lakes Line User Group, Paul Jackson of TransPennine Express said the 185 trains were now being tested in Germany and would be tested between Barrow and Preston in December.

The trains will be replacing the existing 175s and have an automated announcing system and access doors for passengers towards the centre of the carriage, allowing easier customer access.

Mr Jackson said one of the main changes would be the provision of first class seats, which were currently not available on the Lakes Line.

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