Eurostar’s Bumper Half Term

Rugby fans boost passenger numbers ahead of the Six Nations clash
Extra Eurostar services to meet demand

2013-02-20 — /travelprnews.com/ — Eurostar has reported a 6% surge in bookings over the February half term week, compared with the same UK half term holiday last year1.

Thousands of Brits are taking the opportunity to enjoy a Winter break, while the French national rugby team and its fans flock to London this weekend ahead of Saturday’s crucial England versus France Six Nations clash. Friday 22 February is set to be one of Eurostar’s busiest days so far this year, with over 25,000 passengers expected to travel on that day alone.

Nick Mercer, Commercial Director for Eurostar, says; “With Valentine’s Day last Thursday, London Fashion Week this week and the Six Nations clash between England and France this Saturday, we’ve seen a big surge in bookings. To meet this heightened demand and ensure everyone can make the most of the half term break, we’ve even added eight extra services, between London and Paris this month.

“Many of our rugby loving travellers tell us their Eurostar journey is a great opportunity to soak up the carnival mood before the match and to celebrate old friendships and sporting rivalries. We’re sure this weekend will be no exception.”

The England vs. France match kicks off at Twickenham at 17h00 on Saturday 23rd February.

For more information about Eurostar or to book tickets or purchase gift vouchers visit www.eurostar.com or call 08432 186 186.

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Notes to Editors

1. Period from Thursday 14 February to Monday 25 February 2013, compared to period from Thursday 9 February – Monday 20 February 2012

About Eurostar
1. Eurostar is the high-speed train service linking St Pancras International, Ebbsfleet International, Ashford International, Paris, Brussels, Lille, Calais, Disneyland Resort Paris, Avignon and the French Alps.

2. Eurostar was established in 1994 as a partnership between three railway companies: SNCF, SNCB and LCR (London and Continental Railways). On 1 September 2010, Eurostar became a single, unified corporate entity owned by three shareholders: SNCF, SNCB and LCR.

3. The current Eurostar train was first introduced into service in 1994 carrying 750 passengers and operating at speeds of up to 300kph. Since then, the fleet of 28 trains has carried more than 130 million passengers between London and the Continent. Following their refurbishment these trains will continue to form a core part of the Eurostar fleet.

4. Eurostar is a founder member of Railteam, a partnership between Europe’s leading high-speed train operators that is developing simpler ways to book and travel on the fast-expanding, European high-speed rail network.

5. Eurostar and Eurotunnel are entirely separate companies. Eurostar operates high-speed passenger trains, while Eurotunnel operates vehicle shuttle services and the Channel Tunnel itself. Eurostar is Eurotunnel’s biggest customer.

For more information:
Eurostar Press Office
020 7843 5500
press.office@eurostar.co.uk