RAIL firm Grand Central is to bid farewell to three of its high-speed trains, which are now 40 years old.

The Class 43 HST trains will go into retirement when they are withdrawn from service on New Year’s Eve.

They will be replaced by Class 180 trains, which are currently being upgraded and modernised as part of an 18-month refurbishment programme.

The company said these would provide greater capacity and more seats when demand is highest and were already compliant with all necessary disability access standards.

Grand Central, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary, has now announced a ‘Grand Farewell’ charity tour on December 17 for the retiring trains.

It will include pick-ups at Newcastle, Sunderland, Hartlepool, York and Doncaster, with a midday leg stretch break at Sheffield.

It is hoped the event will raise around £25,000 to be split between the Railway Children charity and Railway Benefit Fund.

Both charities will be undertaking a range of fundraising activities and enhanced catering will be offered on board.

To book a seat visit https://www.branchline.uk/current-fixtures.php