Train operator GNER is spending �39m on improving both its diesel and electric services on the East Coast Main Line.

The company is spending �30m on redesigning all passenger coaches in its electric fleet of 225 trains.

And a further �9m is being spent to upgrade its diesel intercity 125 engines, which are used on sections of the line that are not yet electrified.

GNER operates intercity services from London to Aberdeen through Yorkshire and the North East of England.

'Passenger enjoyment'

The aim of the coach refit is to transform the interiors of more than 300 coaches in the electric fleet, which were originally built in the late 1980s.

James Park, managing director of JPA, which is carrying out the refit, said: "We will create an interior... that passengers will enjoy for many years to come."

The completed sets, which the company says will be to the standard of brand new trains, will enter passenger service from early 2003.

The company says the �9m work on the diesel fleet should increase train reliability and lower smoke emissions.

Fire prevention

The 125 High Speed Train has been in service for over 25 years.

Now the 21-strong fleet will be rewired, have dashboards upgraded with new gauges, and new fire prevention systems installed.

There will be an enhanced Train Protection Warning System, and engine modifications to decrease emissions.

The upgrades on the trains are part of GNER's extended franchise agreement, which runs until 2005.