Fishburn Hedges

01.07.2010

Virgin Trains has appointed Fishburn Hedges to a public affairs and stakeholder engagement brief as the new Government reviews rail policy and the train operator prepares to bid for two key rail franchises. 

Fishburn Hedges beat three other agencies at pitch-stage to win the business. The team will be headed by Rory Scanlan.

Arthur Leathley, Director of Communications, Virgin Trains, said:

“With the coalition Government reviewing franchising policy and scrutinising the value for money of the railways, it’s essential that Virgin Trains’ voice as the UK’s most experienced long-distance rail operator is heard.  The Fishburn Hedges team will provide support for our bids and help us make the case for a new approach to rail policy which will secure investment from the private sector and help deliver growth for the UK economy.”

Commenting on the appointment, Rory Scanlan, Director, said:

“We’re thrilled that Virgin Trains has chosen us to support their franchise bids.  Virgin Trains has got a great story to tell and we’re going to help showcase their track record of delivery, while also highlighting their vision for the future. We’ve developed extensive experience of transport and infrastructure policy, as well as providing bid support services, and this appointment builds on these strengths."

Virgin Trains has operated the West Coast Mainline since 1997 and the franchise expires in 2012. Virgin Trains is also preparing to bid for the East Coast franchise.