ONE of the region's train operators is launching a bid today for a new franchise on the flagship East Coast route between London and Scotland.

GNER's 0930 Edinburgh to London service will become a "battle train" today, as it delivers important documents to meet the Strategic Rail Authority's deadline for bidders.

The train's windows will be emblazoned with the company's Back Our Bid campaign advertisements, featuring three of the company's staff.

The campaign centres on GNER's customer satisfaction ratings and innovations including the on-board wireless Internet service.

GNER chief executive Christopher Garnett said: "I am confident that we have submitted the winning bid. The Government will now decide what type of railway it wants. We have spelled out a blueprint to take services on the East Coast Main Line to new heights of reliability, quality and value for money. Our ambition is the creation of a rail service to rival the best in the world.

"Since the Strategic Rail Authority issued its final invitation to tender on October 6, we have consulted widely with stakeholders across the route.

"We have been very heartened and humbled by the fantastic support we have received."

Today, members of the cast of Cinderella, this year's pantomime at the York Grand Opera House, including TV star Tim Vincent, will sign GNER's Back Our Bid petition at York station.

People can lend their support to the bid by visiting the company website at www.gner.co.uk, by text messaging BID to 80216 (standard charges apply), or by writing to their MP.