RAIL enthusiasts are about to get a close look at the shape of things to come.

New trains will enter service with TransPennine Express in two years, and potential passengers are being offered a preview.

A full-sized model of a train carriage is to be installed in the Great Hall of the National Rail Museum, in York, from May 29, for the launch of Railfest, celebrating 200 years of the railways.

The 23 metre-long vehicle will be a fully-fitted and detailed example of what the trains will look like.

Visitors will be able to climb aboard, try the seats, see the interiors and get a good idea of what the trains will be like, even before the first one has been built.

The mock-up, built for train manufacturer Siemens in Germany is being shipped to the UK to be assembled on site.

TransPennine Express has ordered 51 of the 100mph Desiro trains to serve across its network and will replace its entire fleet from 2006.

Managing director Vernon Barker said: "These new trains represent £250m of investment in the North of England and we are delighted to have the opportunity to show the public the quality of service that they can expect in the future."

The Class 185 Desiro diesel trains will be the fourth new rail fleet introduced by First Group to its train businesses since the privatisation of the railways.

TransPennine Express will use the trains to provide a more frequent service between major centres, faster journeys, more seats and better punctuality.

The trains will have air conditioning, intercity train-quality seating, on-board security cameras and easier access for disabled people.

They will be maintained at depots to be built in York and Manchester.

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Published: ??/??/2004