ROG buys Heathrow Connect EMUs

THE RAIL Operations Group has announced the purchase of the five Class 360/2 Desiro sets previously used on the Heathrow Connect services out of Paddington. Formerly owned by Heathrow Airport Holdings, they became redundant last October when Class 345s replaced them as part of the preparations for Crossrail. ROG has not disclosed its plans for the quintet of five-car sets, but all were removed from Old Oak Common to MoD Bicester in midFebruary for secure storage. First away behind 37608 on February 11 were 360204/205 with 360201/203 following the next day while 37510 hauled the 5Q74/1126 departure with 360202 on February 15.

Led by ROG’s 37608, Class 360/2s 360204/205 were hauled as the 5Q74 from Old Oak Common to Bicester MoD facility on February 11 to join the growing ROG fleet. (Spencer Conquest)