A TRAINBUILDER has started work on rolling stock for a key rail link.

Hitachi Rail Europe says it has begun making body shells for trains destined to run on the East Coast main line.

The stock, known as Azumas, will complement existing production of trains for the Great Western main line, with Hitachi carrying out both jobs at its £82m factory in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham.

Initial work on the shells is being overseen in the company’s Japanese heartland, with the structures due to arrive at Aycliffe later this summer when manufacturing will start in earnest.

Bosses say the 65 trains will provide operator Virgin with an extra 12,200 seats, increasing its capacity into London King’s Cross by nearly 30 per cent at peak times.

Karen Boswell, Hitachi Rail Europe managing director, said the company was delighted the high-speed models would be crafted at a factory based in the cradle of the railways.

She said: “The Azuma fleet will be a combination of Japanese design and British manufacturing.

“The trains are built using Japanese bullet train technology, world famous for its quality and reliability.

“We are proud that our Aycliffe team, based a short distance from the East Coast main line, will work on pioneering trains used by millions of passengers.”

Virgin says direct routes to destinations, such as Middlesbrough, will be launched once the fleet enters service next year.

David Horne, Virgin Trains’ East Coast managing director, added: “We are very excited to be moving closer to the day when our fantastic new train comes into service.

“The work happening now in Japan and beginning in the summer at Aycliffe are important steps on that journey.”

Last month, The Northern Echo revealed how Hitachi has now created more than 900 jobs at its North-East plant.

The business’ workforce stands at around 930 after officials smashed an initial 730- job target.

The company has consistently added to its rota to support an increased order book, which includes its East Coast and West Coast work under the Government’s InterCity Express Programme and 100mph models destined for Scotland.

Its first raft of Great Western trains and ScotRail stock is due to start running later this year.

However, further work could come its way after bosses confirmed their intention to bid for a contract to make 225mph trains for HS2.

They have also formed a joint venture with Bombardier to target London underground deals.