First Japan-style bullet train hits the tracks

A high-speed train which will cut journey times between London and Scotland has made its first journey.

The Azuma train uses technology stemming from Japanese bullet trains and can accelerate faster than existing services on the UK network.

The inaugural run north of the border was made as part of a testing programme by manufacturer Hitachi in preparation for roll-out of the 65-strong fleet on Virgin’s east coast route next year. Virgin plans to cut journey times between the Scottish and UK capitals by 22 minutes and the fleet will boost capacity from King’s Cross by 28 per cent at peak times.