The Office of the Rail Regulation (ORR) has decided to approve Wrexham and Shropshire's proposals to run new direct rail services between North Wales, Shropshire and London Marylebone.

It said it has approved in principle Wrexham and Shropshire's Track Access Agreement with Network Rail, which will allow the company to finalise plans to run trains from spring, 2008.

Andy Hamilton, managing director of Wrexham and Shropshire, said: "We are delighted to have received the go-ahead to run this new direct rail service.

"Though there is much to do, we are well prepared with staff recruitment, which has been under way for some time, and are delighted we can now confirm employment contracts and start training our team."

Cllr David Bithell, who has campaigned for direct trains to London since September 2004, said: "I am absolutely delighted. This is a major boost which not only benefits Wrexham but surrounding communities such as Ruabon and Chirk in having direct trains to London.

"Up to 60 new jobs will be provided in Wrexham and this will bring significant economic benefits and support the continued growth of the Rail Network in Wrexham and North East Wales.

"We are now seeing an ever increasing number of rail passengers and rail services which will also assist in a reduction in road congestion and carbon emissions. I congratulate Wrexham and Shropshire who have worked against all the odds to make this happen.

"I wish the company every success for the future in providing rail services to London."