FRESH new interiors are being given to the three former Grand Central (GC) HSTs, now part of the East Midlands Trains (EMT) fleet.
The sets – with two power cars and six trailers, rather than the usual eight – were taken on by EMT to provide additional capacity as a result of enforced diagram changes that stemmed from the improvements made to Thameslink services last May.

EMT introduced the first of the former Grand Central power cars into traffic in February, but the trailer cars were not in the best of condition and had not received reliability modifications, so the decision was made to refurbish them.
In addition, EMT acquired three ex-GWR TRFB vehicles to increase First Class seating.
EMT completed the first train in September, and has fully refitted the trailer first (TF) with new beige leather seats to replace the aubergine colour inherited from GC.
Read more in the November issue of The RM – on sale now!
Railway Reads
From the history of steam through to 21st century rail transport news, we have titles that cater for all rail enthusiasts. Covering diesels, modelling, steam and modern railways, check out our range of magazines and fantastic subscription offers.Get The Railway Hub Weekly Round-up
Enter your e-mail address below and you will receive weekly rail news straight into your inbox...You can unsubscribe at any time.

About the Author
- West Somerset Railway announce reopening plans for May - 2nd April 2021
- PREVIEW: May issue of Railways Illustrated - 1st April 2021
- Churnet Valley Railway reveals plans to reopen line to Leek - 1st April 2021