Crossrail begins testing trains on the Elizabeth line in London

News raises hopes that the much delayed and over-budget project will open to customers within a year

Test train services have begun running under London on the Crossrail project, boosting confidence that the Elizabeth line should finally open to customers within a year.

Four trains an hour are operating as part of rigorous safety testing, described as a crucial milestone" in the development of the 19bn east-west rail link across the capital.