The Stadler-built Class 756 Tri-mode trains are becoming increasingly visible on the South Wales network as drivers undergo final training sessions.

Driver training on these new TfW trains began in April this year in preparation for the 756s upcoming introduction to passenger service over the coming months.

Drivers are getting used to the controls and various modes that these trains can operate on be it Overhead Line Equipment (OLE), battery power, or a diesel/battery hybrid.

TfW say that the training programme is ‘progressing smoothly’ and they are confident that the new trains will enter service as planned.

Class 756s will start their front-line operations on the Merthyr to Aberdare loop, before being introduced on the Treherbert line a few weeks later.

The drivers have really enjoyed the new trains and we have got a busy schedule ahead to get a good number of drivers ready so these can be introduced over the next few months.”

Steve Paramore, Driver Integration Manager at TfW