New NHS Branding for GTR EMUs

Govia Thameslink Railway are the latest train operating company to show their support for the NHS during the Coronavirus crisis.

GTR, which run rail franchises Southern, Thameslink, Great Northern and Gatwick Express, have applied NHS branding to the front and rear cars of 3 of their electric multiple units.

Units number 377111, 700111 and 717011, – have been given a special NHS branding. As there aren’t as many as 111 units in the 717 fleet, the special NHS wrap has been applied to 717011.

Southern 377111 — Southern Class 377 number 377111 crosses Ouse Valley Viaduct – Credit Fraser Hay of 73a.co.uk

The appreciative train wraps applied by Aura Brand Solutions and supplied by 3m, show GTR’s support for the NHS and all front line workers.

377111 NHS Southern — 377111 in its NHS wraps, working a London Victoria to Brighton service near Haywards Heath. Photo supplied by Fraser Hay.

The wraps show the message “NHS WE THANK YOU” along with WE’RE WITH YOU” directly beneath the rail franchise logos, showing support for the 200,000 key workers who rely on GTR’s services each week. The initiative was part-funded Porterbrook Rail and Cross London Trains.

Govia Thameslink Railway aren’t the first train operating company to show their support for the wonderful service that NHS and front line workers are providing during these challenging times, Rail Operations Group have reliveried two of their freight locomotives into NHS branding as well to thank them and front line workers for their hard work.

700111 NHS Livery — NHS liveried 700111 is seen working 9T53 Bedford – Brighton. The train joined 700155 “Trainbow” at Brighton the #ClapForCarers

Where to see 377111, 700111 and 717011

Operating out of London Victoria and London Bridge to destinations from Brighton to Southampton, Ashford, and even as far as Milton Keynes, finding 377111 won’t be easy. Your best bet would be to look on Brighton to London Victoria services, and East/West Coastway services. Milton Keynes services are usually operated by 377/7 and 377/2 units, and inner London services by 377/3, 377/6 and 455 units, but it goes without saying, 377111 could be out of service underground maintenance if required.

700111 would likely be the most challenging, it could be on any of Thameslink’s trains between Brighton/Horsham/Littlehampton to Peterborough, Cambridge or Bedford. Likewise, it could be on Kings Cross to Peterborough services too, so may not reach the south coast on certain days. And if maintenance is necessary, it could be out of service in depot.

Have you seen 377111, 700111 or 717011? Share your sightings in the comments below…