Virgin railways - A Brief Rant

I travelled fairly regularly from NW England on the main west coast line down to Euston during 2002. All of the trains were the old BR InterCity locomotives and coaches. During that time, Virgin made a big announcement that new trains were coming. Indeed they did arrive, I caught a train from Manchester to Euston and this was a new train. Also I travelled from Birmingham to Preston and this train was also a new train. Complete with air conditioning, power outlets for the laptop and much more comfortable seats.

However, I have recently travelled again from Lancaster to Euston and back, and in both cases, neither of the trains were new - they were still the old rolling stock. What is happening here? Surely the main line to the NW, and Scotland up the west coast should have its new trains by now?
|