Hopefully it will also have the correct proportion of units too: 74 x Class 357 and 12 x Class 720. Though given recent comments by GBR - Anglia management the number of Class 720s will be fluid as Ilford and East Ham will assist each other in times of shortages. I wouldn't rule out seeing a 720/1 or /5 in GA livery on C2C long before they're all rebranded. Apparently we've got a reserve of 11 units on Anglia side at the moment. Back in the day, even in the early days of privatisation Ilford and East Ham would assist each other with spare rolling stock. It's wonderful to have those days back again. Here's 312 708 taking a short holiday on C2C in 1999.
Sadly GA have 3 fewer reserve units due to another alarming derailment this afternoon. No injuries reported though still totally traumatic for the passengers and crew. 720 508 (leading) & 131 on the London bound 2K71 and passing 556 on 1K50 got grazed too. As with yesterday, due respect to the staff and emergency services who are working selflessly in blistering heat here in Essex. Thoughts with the passengers who would have had to remain calm without air con awaiting rescue. Essex peaked at 38oC/100oF an hour ago. From a practical, customer service info, point of view. The Southminster/Southend Victoria to Shenfield branch will be closed this weekend.
