31.05.03

Gwyneth Dunwoody, Member of Parliament for Crewe and Nantwich and Chairwoman of the House of Commons Transport Committee, today unveiled 87002 in a new Porterbrook livery as part of the 30th birthday celebrations for the Class 87 electric locomotives, which power top-link West Coast expresses.

Mrs Dunwoody took the opportunity to unveil the new Porterbrook livery at Bombardier's "Return of the Legends" Festival of Rail Open Weekend at Crewe Works (31 May - 1 June 2003). The locomotive chosen for the honour, 87002, is one of the 36 strong class built at Crewe Works in 1973.

Keith Howard, Commercial Director of Porterbrook Leasing Company Limited said

"87002 and her 35 sister locomotives were built in Mrs Dunwoody's Crewe constituency so it is fitting that she is able to join us in celebrating their 30th anniversary. I am also delighted that Mrs Dunwoody felt able to unveil 87002's latest livery - which is symbolic of Porterbrook's continued support of, investment in, and commitment to, Britain's railway."

Mr Howard then presented Mrs Dunwoody with a hand painted model of 87002.

87002 is normally to be found powering top-link express trains on the West Coast Mainline. Currently in service with Virgin Trains the Class 87s are due to be replaced by brand new trains over the next 18 months.

The new Porterbrook livery was applied to 87002 by Alstom Transport's Willesden Traincare Centre.

For further information about Porterbrook contact Rupert Brennan Brown, Head of Communications on 01332 263251 (m: 07799 337052)