A LONG-delayed new high speed "tilting" train from Manchester arrived in London Euston 11 minutes early on its maiden journey.

The first passenger Pendolino tilting train, operated by Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Rail, left Piccadilly at 6.58am and arrived in London at 9.24am - 11 minutes ahead of the scheduleds arrival.

Mr Branson joined the first passengers on the train -- which has a top speed of 140mph. A delay in modifying the line means the trains will not be able to reach 125mph -- or tilt -- until 2004.