The MP for Watford has welcomed a new rail operator taking over the West Midlands franchise.

Abellio was awarded a contract to take over the West Coast Main Line in August this year - which includes services from Watford Junction to London Euston, and the Abbey Line.

The train operator officially started running the franchise yesterday (Sunday, December 11).

The Department for Transport has confirmed that nearly £1bn will be invested on the West Coast Main Line to improve services, including more frequent services on evenings and weekends, as well as upgraded trains.

It’s also been confirmed that passengers will get free Wi-Fi on all mainline services by the end of 2019, charging points on all London services, compensation if trains are delayed more than 15 minutes, and improved access for disabled passengers.

The Abbey Line will also have a brand new train, as well as improvements to Sunday services.

Passengers travelling between St Albans Abbey and Watford Junction will also be able to pay with a smart card for the first time.

MP Richard Harrington said: “Abellio has taken over managing the West Coast Main Line from London Midland, this includes our services to and from London, as well as the Abbey Line.

“In my meetings with Ministers at the Department for Transport, I have been demanding a much better deal for Watford residents and this new franchise represents just that.

“I look forward to working with the new operator, and finally seeing some much needed investment on the line to drastically improve services.”

George Jabbour, the Conservative Mayoral candidate, recently attended the Annual General Meeting of the Abbey Flyer Users’ Group and discovered platform 11, through which the Abbey Line runs, will be refurbished over the Christmas holidays.

He added: “I look forward to working with Richard Harrington MP and Abellio to ensure a much better service for Watford residents.

“I think we all agree that new trains are long overdue.”

Abellio has been contacted for a statement.