This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring Britain's largest cities closer together. In partnership FirstGroup and Trenitalia will provide exceptional customer service as standard for our customers. We'll be delivering a better travel experience, more services, simpler ticketing and sustainable intercity travel. See more about our exciting plans here

At the same time, we will also provide a range of design, development and mobilisation services to support the delivery of the first phase of High Speed 2 (HS2). Over the coming weeks and months, we'll keep you updated on how the new franchise will work and look – including revealing a new name and brand.