The train approaching St Albans station is the... City of St Albans.

First Capital Connect, the train operators of the Thameslink line, has recognised St Albans’ historical standing by naming a train after the city.

It was unveiled this week at a ceremony attended by the Dean of St Albans, the Very Rev Jeffrey John, and the Mayor, Cllr Annie Brewster.

FCC managing director David Statham said: “The city is important not only as a place from where so many commute into London but also as a destination in its own right with a rich heritage offering a wide variety of places for visitors to see.

“We are delighted to be naming one of our trains in the city’s honour and hope it will encourage more people to come and visit.”

Blessing the train, the Dean said: “Like lots of clergy I am a railway enthusiast, so I am delighted that the city of St Albans is to have a train named after it.

“We are extremely proud of Alban, Britain’s first saint, and of our cathedral, which is the first and oldest site of Christian worship in the country.”

The Mayor added: “Commuters, day-trippers and visiting tourists are able to enjoy the benefits of our vibrant contemporary city whilst experiencing over 2,000 years of visible heritage.

“I cannot wait to travel on The City of St Albans.”