Date: 16/07/2012
FirstGroup has emerged as a frontrunner for the multibillion-pound west coast rail franchise alongside incumbent Virgin Trains, with the contest now a two-horse race between the experienced operators. Aberdeen-based FirstGroup is vying with Virgin despite announcing last year that it is handing back its Great Western rail contract three years ahead of schedule, avoiding more than £800m in payments to the government.
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Guardian
Aberdeen-based group is frontrunner, along with incumbent, in battle to secure 14-year franchise contract
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Tags: x Virgin Trains