The first train. Photo: John Sturrock

Today is the first birthday of the East London Line.

The Overground train running from Dalston Junction to New Cross took its first journey on April 27 2010. It was marked with a large celebration lead by Boris Johnson.

The line opened fully to incorporate the stations between New Cross and West Croydon in May 2010.

Since then, the it has benefitted thousands of families, workers, students and businesses across South-East London and will be an integral part of the Olympic 2012 transport plan.

Despite some set backs and controversy with the original opening, and the crippling effect of December’s “big freeze” on the line’s third track system, TfL’s East London Line has been an overwhelming success.

In January 2011 our local line was the most punctual rail service in the UK, with 96.4 per cent of trains arriving within five minutes of their scheduled time.

With the extension of the line continuing to Highbury and Islington this year – two months ahead of schedule –  the East London Line has become the primary means of connection for thousands of Londoners across the city. For people from Thornton Heath to Angel Islington, these spacious, air-conditioned trains are now a much-used, everyday necessity.

For a more detailed look at the East London Line’s first year go to Mike Northcott’s feature – “The new East London Line, its many owners and a tricky third rail”.