CUSTOMERS, train enthusiasts and people from across the country will get a special opportunity to say farewell to a retiring stock of trains which have served the Liverpool city region since 1978.

Merseyrail’s Class 507 fleet is being phased out following the introduction of a brand-new, state of the art train fleet.

In order to make sure the much-loved old fleet is given a proper send-off, Merseyrail and the Branch Line Society will be hosting two farewell tours.

The first tour, called the Wirral Swan Song, will take place on Sunday, September 15 on the Wirral line. Starting at Hooton at 9:20am, the special service will call at all destinations on the Wirral line, ending back at Hooton at 6pm. Lunch and breaks throughout the day will be scheduled.

The second and final farewell tour will take place later in the year. Details will be announced nearer to the time.

Sally Ralston, head of community & engagement at Merseyrail, said: “These trains are much-loved by people not just from within the Liverpool city region, but across the whole of the UK.

“The proceeds of the ticket sales will benefit Merseyrail’s current charity partners; Centre 56, Rescue Me Animal Sanctuary, Blackburne House and Parkinson’s Wirral.

“Onboard, there will be an opportunity to purchase souvenirs for the special trip including window decals. A charity raffle will give people the chance to win some fantastic prizes and further support the charities.”

The 507 fleet is currently leased from Angel Trains, who are also supporting the farewell tours.

David Jordan, chief operating officer at Angel Trains, said: “We are proud to have supported passengers travelling across Liverpool and beyond for the past 30 years and the role that our fleet has played in creating jobs and sustaining businesses within the region.

“We would like to thank all those at Merseyrail and Merseytravel, who have worked with us to keep this fleet delivering for passengers for as long as it has.”