WREXHAM'S MP said she is "excited" by plans for a new direct rail service to London.

Last week, Alstom revealed plans for a rail new service between Wrexham General and London Euston.

Working in partnership with consultancy SLC Rail, the open access operation will be known as Wrexham, Shropshire and Midlands Railway (WSMR).

The proposal envisages a service of five trains per day in each direction Monday to Saturday, with four travelling both ways on Sundays.

It is anticipated that WSMR services could begin as early as 2025 and it is expected the new operation will create around 50 new jobs, with roles mostly based in North Wales and the Midlands.

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Reacting to the news, Wrexham's MP, Sarah Atherton, said: “I am excited that plans are progressing to deliver rail services that will improve Wrexham’s connectivity to the Midlands and London. Wrexham deserves better than the current rail options from Transport for Wales and Avanti. These services would mean choice for customers and a boost for our city’s economy – more investment, tourists, and jobs.

"As one of the UK’s newest ‘Investment Zones’, bolstering connectivity both to and from Wrexham will enable our city to take full advantage of the many opportunities that lie ahead, and these plans will undoubtedly help in facilitating that.

"I am pleased to be working with Wrexham, Shropshire, and Midlands Railway and partners to make this happen.”