Boost for Circle line passengers as big, cool, walk-through trains come into service

New trains came into service today on the Circle Line.

53 of the new 'walk-through' trains, which are one carriage bigger than the line's old trains, went into operation for the first time this morning on the Circle and Hammersmith and City lines.

The line's existing trains are more than 40 years old. They started service in 1969/70 and were manufactured in two batches in 1969, with a further supply in 1977.

The new trains can accommodate 17 per cent more passengers, and have wider doors and walkways, as well as air conditioning.

They are also better adapted for wheelchair users.

Tube users today seemed to be enjoying the upgrade.

Many took to social networking sites to express their glee.

One wrote online: “Ludicrously excited about the new Circle/ district line trains” and “The new Circle line trains are rather funky”.

By the end of 2016 there will be 191 of the new trains on 40% of the Tube network running on the Circle, District, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan lines.

London Underground’s Chief Operating Officer said: “As part of our continued drive to improve our passengers’ experience of travelling on the Tube we’re delighted to be rolling out these new air-conditioned, high specification trains.”