FirstGroup hopes to run West Coast trains by Christmas "We have every confidence in the DfT's process which is rigorous, detailed and fair and in which bids are thoroughly tested," said the business in a trading update for the last six months. Our focus is to ensure a smooth transition with continuity for staff and passengers alike and to deliver the many benefits and improvements we are offering without delay or disruption. We continue to prepare for a successful mobilisation on 9 December 2012. Last month the Government admitted that FirstGroup's contentious £13.3bn bid for the West Coast Main Line was riskier than a rival offer by Virgin Rail, but insisted it still represented better value for the taxpayer. Virgin Rail is seeking a judicial review of the selection and has offered to run West Coast services between London and Scotland for free if it delays the handover. But FirstGroup this morning said it was preparing to take over the service on schedule, and revealed that its UK rail division hopes to boost like-for-like passenger revenue by 8.1pc. It said that all of its rail franchises had performed well and that it was shortlisted for a further three which are currently out for tender. Revenue from FirstGroup's US Greyhound coaches and UK bus services has been in line with expectations and the company hopes to raise dividends by 7pc in the current year. It will release half-year results on November 7.