7am Manchester to London Train Service Rescued After Public Backlash
The 07:00 Avanti West Coast train service from Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston, which runs via Stockport and usually takes under two hours, was slated for removal and would have operated as a ghost train with no passengers. This decision faced backlash from passengers, rail staff, and government officials including rail minister Peter Hendy and transport secretary Heidi Alexander. Due to the public response, the service has been saved and will continue operating.
Analysis of recent performance showed that the 07:00 train only arrived on time once in the last 11 trips, with the latest journey reaching London eight minutes late, totaling 2 hours and 7 minutes. On one morning, the fully booked service saw an onboard cafe opening delayed because of a card-reader issue. Despite improved profitability following a revival of the route, concerns remain over the long-term future of the service. Public and staff groups emphasize that cancelling the train would harm northern travel connections.
