Watch the train running
from Dover and hear from MP Gwyn Prosser

by Graham Tutthill

The high-speed train service has been launched between
Dover and London.

It is currently a preview service, with two peak trains
running in the morning and two in the evening. A full service
will be launched in December.

Journey times have been slashed by 47 minutes, with the new
trains travelling between Dover Priory and St Pancras in one hour
eight minutes.

Fares are £32.70 single and £55.10 return, compared with £28.30
single and £47 return for normal mainline peak services.

Dover MP Gwyn Prosser and Dover District Councillor Nigel Collor
- who have both campaigned tirelessly to get the new service
extended to Dover - were among those at the launch on Monday
morning, September 7.

Charles Horton, managing director of Southeastern Trains, said:
"We always hoped we could expand the preview service and thanks to
the success of the first weeks are are now in a position to do
this.

"We want as many people as possible to be able to experience the
service before the full timetable is introduced on December 13.

"The previous services will allow us to continue testing,
training employees and adjust to passenger feedback and ensure that
the full introduction runs smoothly."