Campaigners for the North have welcomed the news that rail operator Northern has bid a final farewell to its controversial fleet of Pacer trains after more than three decades’ service.

The antiquated Pacer trains - buses from the 1980s which were converted into makeshift trains - were initially introduced as a temporary stopgap solution to stock shortages and their continued use has been cited by many as a prime example of the North-South divide.

Northern eventually retired the first Pacer from service in August 2019 now the last remaining train has completed its swansong journey, from Kirkby to Manchester Victoria on Friday November 27,

Northern’ said its new trains feature free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, at-seat power and customer media screens with real-time information.

Chris Jackson, Regional Director at Northern, said: “The Pacers have kept millions of northerners on the move and, while they have served us well and provided some communities with rail services they may have otherwise lost, it is time to give them a well-earned rest.

Grant Shapps, Transport Secretary with Cabinet Responsibility for the Northern Powerhouse, said: “The Pacer fleet has connected communities on the Northern network for over 30 years, but today marks the sun finally setting on trains that have become loved by some, but hated by many.

“This marks a new era of transport in the north, with passengers enjoying a brand new fleet of trains, delivering more modern services and creating a more reliable network across the north.”

The Pacers were introduced as a temporary stopgap solution to stock shortages but ended up serving Northern routes for 40 years.

Last of the Northern Pacers - YouTube

Thatcher's legacy to British Railways, now one of the worst of the class should be put on her grave to thank her for the worst trains ever to run on the Railways of this Country.

Remember being at Manchester Airport one day and an American asked me before boarding a Pacer,"Where's the 1st class?"