Eurostar reports record breaking numbers

With the introduction of the new direct service from London to the South of France, Eurostar sales are going from strength to strength as travellers choose the train over the plane.

, Chief Executive, Eurostar, said: “We have seen unprecedented demand over the summer months as customers are taking advantage of our frequent services and new routes. With passenger numbers increasing year-on-year, we are looking forward to the arrival of our new trains. The combination of more seats, superior comfort and state-of-the art design is set to transform the travel experience.” Eurostar is also set for a strong August with over 148,000 passengers travelling with Eurostar over the bank holiday weekend, and Friday 28th August alone saw over 38,000 people utilising the high-speed rail operator. Eurostar’s new all year round direct service from London to the South of France was launched on May 1, and over 100,000 tickets have been sold to date. Eurostar has seen a positive response to the route, which runs between London and Lyon, Avignon and Marseille, as passengers are drawn by the wide-ranging gastronomic and cultural attractions of the region. Since its inauguration in 1994, a fleet of 28 trains has carried more than 150 million passengers between London and the Continent. In March, the government sold its 40 per cent stake in Eurostar, raising around £760 million.