We are delighted to share that Colas Rail UK’s Freight division have secured a contract with Network Rail for the provision of “Thunderbird” Rescue and Recovery Locomotives in the Eastern Region, between and London and Newcastle.

Our locomotives will be used to rescue broken down passenger and freight trains on the East Coast Main Line. The contract is for an initial a three-year period starting in January 2026, with the potential to extend for up to a further three years.

These services will be operated by two of our Class 67 locomotives and will be based at Newark Northgate Sidings.

Speaking on the success of the contract, Freight Operations Director, Sep Semsarzadeh said “We are honoured and excited to work for Network Rail Eastern Region to provide dedicated and 24/7 rescue and recovery services on the busy East Coast Mainline, and between London and Newcastle.

“Our Class 67s and pool of drivers will be on hand to deploy promptly from Newark Northgate Siding when and if required, to support various FOCs and TOCs”

Geoff Hibberd, Network Rail’s Head of Procurement and Commercial Strategy, said: “We’re pleased to award this contract to Colas Rail, providing a dedicated rescue and recovery service along the East Coast Main Line.

“Keeping trains moving safely and reliably is essential for passenger and freight trains, so maintaining robust plans for incidents is key. The deployment of Class 67 locomotives from Newark will strengthen our resilience on one of the country’s busiest routes.”

First published: 7th January 2026