High-speed trains service launched

THE high-speed rail service connecting the Kent towns of Sandwich and Deal with London has started.

Southeastern trains will stop at the towns before following the established route via Dover to St Pancras. The company is providing three trains during the morning rush hour and two in the evening.

The service was piloted last month during the 140th Open Golf Championship, which was held in Sandwich. The high-speed trains leave Sandwich at 05h51, 06h17 and 06h47 every week day, calling at Deal five minutes later. Trains will return from St Pancras at 17h40 and 18h40. The new services will operate Monday to Friday and will take approximately 90 minutes. Existing Mainline services to Deal and Sandwich take approximately 135 minutes. The new services from Deal and Sandwich are being funded by Kent County Council to boost business confidence and support new employment opportunities in East Kent.