Commuters will get 28 new trains

The 140mph trains are expected to be introduced in 2009

A £250m contract to build 28 new high speed trains for Kent has been signed.

The new commuter trains will run on the Channel Tunnel Rail Link as well as local lines in Kent.

The trains are to be built by Japanese bullet train manufacturer Hitachi, and will be capable of travelling at speeds of up to 140mph.

They are expected to come into service in 2009 and it is hoped the improved service will be a boost to London's Olympic bid.

The trains will be capable of moving spectators from central London to the Olympic park in Stratford, east London, in less than eight minutes.

New routes are also expected to include Gravesend, the Medway towns, Sittingbourne, Folkestone, Canterbury and Ramsgate.