NEW electric trains are set to be tested on the tracks for the first time in Oxfordshire.

Network Rail said it was close to finishing work between Didcot and Reading as part of its electrification of the Great Western Mainline.

This has seen the publicly-funded firm put in place overhead line equipment such as the high-voltage wires that will carry power to the trains.

It is now preparing to test them. A spokeswoman warned the public they should now treat all overhead equipment, "whether it looks complete or not", as electrified.

Western route managing director Mark Langman added: "This marks a really important milestone in our work to upgrade Brunel’s railway.

"For the first time a major section of the Great Western Main Line will soon have a fully functioning overhead power supply, enabling us to start testing the new electric trains.

"As safety is our highest priority, it’s very important the public know how to keep themselves and others safe around this new equipment which is why we are carrying out an extensive awareness campaign."

Network Rail says the electrified railway will be more reliable and the trains set to use it will be longer, faster, quieter and greener than those currently in use.

The news came as the firm also opened a £10m state-of-the-art electrification training centre in Swindon.

It is where engineers from across the Thames Valley can learn how to install and maintain the new system in a safe environment, Network Rail said.