NORTHERN has launched its first fully-refurbished train which is set to be rolled out across the network.

The delivery of 243 refurbished trains is part of a multi-million pound investment programme to improve customer journeys.

The Class 158 today made its debut travelling between Leeds and Lincoln.

Nortern says the new trains give customers more leg room and provides them with digital improvements including USB charging sockets at every seat and free Wi-Fi throughout.

The trains are also set to feature customer information screens and digital seat reservations.

Last week, the first of 98 brand new trains began test runs on Northern routes and are scheduled for passenger service by the end of the year.

Northern says that more than 400 of its stations will see improvements such as new waiting rooms, improved lighting and CCTV, and new seating by 2020.

Ben Ackroyd, Engineering Director at Northern, said: “We have promised our customers fully-refurbished trains with modern facilities. I am really proud to see this first unit out on the network.

“We are committed to delivering further improvements for our customers in the north of England and this train – which will operate across the region – is tangible proof that our improvements are on track.”