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A Doncaster rail firm is helping improve passenger comfort across the country after a 13 train makeover.

Wabtec Rail, based in Hexthorpe, has transformed 13 National Express East Coast trains, each with 9 carriages, as part of a £20 million refurbishment contract.

The contract, won in 2007, helped safeguard the future of the plant – one of Doncaster’s biggest employers with more than 600 staff – and was completed this week.

Trains are now quieter and more environmentally friendly with more space for passengers. Carriages contain softer seats with back support, new luggage racks with more storage space, new tables, lighting and carpets and new toilets.

Susan Goldsmith, National Express East Coast Managing Director said, “It has been a privilege to work with Wabtec Rail and the work carried out by them has been fantastic. The investment in the fleet has extended the life of the HST’s by keeping them fit for purpose, and helping to maintain their iconic status on the UK railway while looking and feeling like new trains.”

Wabtec will now concentrate on other major projects including a £5.4million contract to supply 24 ballast wagons to Irish Rail.