New rail link slashes London-Paris travel time

People who own property in France are likely to welcome news that a new rail link has reduced the time it takes to get there.

Eurostar's new rail link between Paris and London was launched yesterday and completed its run in two hours, three minutes and 39 seconds.

This is a record timing for a Channel Tunnel rail link, brought about the introduction of a new line from St Pancras International following its renovation.

Yesterday's launch was carried out in the company of invited guests, dignitaries and journalists, although the service is set to open to the public later this year.

Holidaymakers and overseas property owners will be able to benefit from the reduced journey times from November 14th.

Richard Brown, chief executive of Eurostar, commented: "Today marks Britain's entry into the European high-speed rail club."

He added that the service was a more environmentally-friendly way of accessing the European mainland than flying by plane.