The massive Farringdon Station redevelopment moved a step forward this week with a new ticket hall opening and longer trains now calling.

Monday marked a key stage in the �6 billion Thameslink programme when 12-carriage trains running between Bedford and Brighton started to call at Farringdon.

The huge glass-roofed ticket building, the size of six tennis courts, opened on the same day.

Richard Walker, Network Rail project director, said: “It has been a huge effort so it is pleasing to see this come to a successful conclusion.

“This is a very significant stage for the Thameslink programme providing more trains into London.

“The ticket hall has the ‘wow factor’. We have had positive comments from passengers.”

Farringdon tube station opens on February 6 with refurbished floors, toilets and ticket office facilities.

In the mean time commuters must use the Turnmill Street entrance to get on the tube.

The grade-two listed front entrance building in Cowcross Street will also be restored to its former glory.