Pendoli no-no 13 October, 2003
In the nearly two-and-three quarter years that I was commuting I never got to travel on one of Virgin’s promised new trains (despite the fact that they were supposed to be in service during ‘Winter 2002/2003′). So you can imagine my excitement when, on a recent trip to London, a sleek, new, sliver and red Pendolino pulled up to the platform. Once inside I was quickly disappointed though. Yes there’s a few extras (like built-in radio, individual lighting controls and window blinds), but the carriages feel a lot smaller than the rolling stock they’re replacing and have a plasticky facade that just doesn’t look like it’s going to last. Oh, and to encourage more people on to public transport 4 out of 8 carriages are now First Class; it used to be 3 out of 8. I’m just glad I’ve handed my season ticket in.