GOVERNMENT officials have named the three firms bidding to run trains operating from Crewe to Liverpool and Birmingham from October 2017.

Trains running to the two cities from Crewe are currently operated by London Midland, which is owned by Govia.

The Department for Transport announced on April 7 the train companies that are in the running for the next West Midlands franchise competition.

The shortlisted bidders are: London and West Midlands Railway Ltd, a subsidiary of Govia Ltd (a joint venture between Keolis and Go-Ahead Group); West Midlands Trains Ltd, currently a wholly owned subsidiary of Abellio Transport Group Ltd with East Japan Railway Company and Mitsui & Co Ltd as minority partners; and MTR Corporation (West Midlands) Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of MTR Corporation (UK) Ltd

The franchise was originally due to expire in September 2015, this was extended to March 2016, and again to October 2017 after London Midland agreed to put on extra trains and improve services.

Rail Minister Claire Perry said: "The West Midlands franchise serves both commuters and long distance passengers and we are confident these companies will create high quality bids that can deliver better journeys for all.

"The announcement marks a key step forward in giving passengers improved services across the region and beyond."

The new operator is due to take over the franchise in October 2017, with the contract award expected to be made in June 2017.

The current franchise covers a combination of commuting and long-distance services spanning the midlands, south-east and north-west as well services to London Euston and Liverpool Lime Street.