Train that runs on bio-fuel being tested

London: Train bosses are testing a new bio-fuelled train in a bid to avoid spiralling diesel costs.

South West Trains has converted one of its diesel trains to use bio-fuel - a mixture of soya, grape seed and diesel - as it tests the alternative power source.

Yesterday commuters on the Exeter to Waterloo train arriving at 7.18am were brought into London by the train. A spokeswoman said: "We are working on the principle that fossil fuels are finite and are looking at alternatives."

Early indications

The experiment will run until the end of the year but early indications are that it is a success. "The new fuel has not damaged the engine nor affected train performance," the spokeswoman added.