Date: 11/11/2007

A new train operator has begun running services across Britain. From Sunday, CrossCountry - part of the Arriva group - takes over former Virgin Train routes, running from Aberdeen in Scotland to Penzance in Cornwall. The company has also taken over part of Central Trains over the Midlands network from Stansted to Cardiff. Its contract is expected to last until 2016 with the company promising to make travel easier and simpler with more seats at busy times. Managing director Andy Cooper said: "From day one, our focus and priority will be effective delivery and good performance on our services." The company has promised various improvements to be introduced within two years