Hanson Cement (HeidelbergCement group) has agreed a new contract with GB Railfreight for seven years. The new deal will provide freight services for bulk cement from the Ketton works in Rutland, Lancashire, to terminals at London King's Cross, Avonmouth in Bristol and Mossend in Glasgow.

GB freight will operate nine trains a week for cement deliveries in the UK for Hanson Cement which are in part for the construction of the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station.

John Smith, managing director of GB Railfreight, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to be providing more rail freight services for Hanson. We already provide four trains a week between Ribblesdale and Avonmouth, and this deal will see GB Railfreight haul cement for the first time. We are delighted to continue our partnership and look forward to developing this specific part of Hanson's supply chain."

Matt Barlow, supply chain director for Hanson UK, added that: "We are working to increase the tonnage of material we transport by rail across the UK. This arrangement helps us to take trucks off the roads and reduce our carbon emissions. We are thrilled to continue our partnership with GB Railfreight, who have always provided us with an excellent service."