JULIA CELEBRATES SLEEPER SERVICE REVAMP

6.45.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 23rd Jun 2008

Falmouth and Camborne MP Julia Goldsworthy celebrated the re-launch of the sleeper service between London Paddington to Penzance, following a multi-million pound upgrade to the service by First Great Western.

Both the sleeping berth and seated carriages have been refurbished, and up to 5 sleeping carriages are used on the service. There are also plans in the pipeline to increase the number of sleeper carriages to 6 during exceptionally busy times. A better breakfast range is being trialled and for the first time it is now possible to book a berth online.

Almost exactly three years ago the sleeper service was under threat - with the government listing it only as an optional part of the train franchise. The proposal provoked outrage from thousands of campaigners, which contributed to the u-turn in government policy that safeguarded the Night Riviera's future.

Commenting, Julia Goldsworthy MP said:

"This time three years ago, many people were concerned about the future survival of the service. Today's relauch shows just how much the service's fortunes have turned around in that time. Now the "Night Riviera" is thriving - with increasing demand and refurbished carriages the best evidence of this.

"I've used the service in the last few weeks, and it's great to see the train so stylishly decked out. However, the real stars of the show remain the on-board team, who have always been nothing short of brilliant, and have always made my journeys a pleasure.

"Visitors and business people relying on the sleeper can now enjoy better levels of comfort and service, showing just how far First Great Western's priorities have changed in the last 3 years. The Night Riviera is now back on the map as a flagship train service for Cornwall, and it's about time too!