BOSSES of a trainbuilder have said they are ready to expand to challenge for significant new projects after unveiling their latest North-East creation yesterday.

The latest chapter in Hitachi's Newton Aycliffe history was marked yesterday with the launch of their first commuter train.

The company is producing a fleet of 70 Class 385 trains that will be used on the ScotRail commuter routes, including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Stirling, Alloa and Dunblane.

But speaking at the launch, Amy Webb, project manager, hinted this wasn't the end of the success story for Hitachi, which opened its Newton Aycliffe factory in 2015

“If the order book requires it, we will expand further," she said.

“We have actually extended already and we have permission in place if we want to expand onto the land nearby, so we have got flexibility."

Hitachi have previously announced intentions to secure HS2 and London underground work, the latter of which would be alongside Bombardier.

Last year, the firm unveiled its maiden creation - the first of its Intercity Express Trains - which are expected enter service by the end of the month, with its first route being Bristol to London Paddington.

“The product we have produced is high quality and it is another good member of the Hitachi family," said Ms Webb.

“The vision is to have the very best railway Scotland has ever had, and for that to happen, you need the best trains."

Many of the 1,000-plus employees who now work at the site, on Aycliffe Business Park, in County Durham, gathered for the train's official unveiling, taking selfies as it was rolled out of the factory for the first time.

Andrew Dick, production section leader, said: "The majority of our team are local lads, and there is a real comradeship between them - it is great that they have somewhere like this on their doorstep."

Ms Webb added: “It is huge for the area – it was an ambitious project for us with £82 million invested in the factory, and now we can say all that investment has been worthwhile.

“Everyone you see working around the site is so proud to be part of the team."

Ross Nagle, chief operating officer, said: “It is absolutely fantastic – the amount of work, effort and time we have put in has been tremendous.

“It has been a big learning curve for us, but we are really pleased it has come to fruition today - it has taken a lot of dedication

“It is onwards and upwards – there is a lot more on the horizon in the short, medium and long term."