Thameslink (train operating company, 1997–2006)

Thameslink was a train operating company (TOC) in the United Kingdom that operated the Thameslink franchise from 1997 to 2006. The franchise provided north-south rail services through the centre of London, connecting Bedford in the north with Brighton, Sutton, and other destinations in the south. The core route ran through the Thameslink tunnels under the City of London.

The Thameslink franchise was originally awarded to Govia in 1997, beginning operations on 1 April 1997, replacing the previous Thameslink Cityflier service operated by British Rail. Govia operated the franchise until its expiration in 2006.

During its operation, Thameslink was responsible for the operation and maintenance of the trains and stations along the route, as well as setting timetables and providing passenger information. It faced challenges including overcrowding and infrastructure constraints.

In 2006, the Thameslink franchise was merged with the Great Northern franchise to form the First Capital Connect franchise, awarded to FirstGroup. This marked the end of Thameslink as a separate train operating company under the Govia banner. The Thameslink name was later revived in 2014 when Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) began operating the new, expanded Thameslink, Southern and Great Northern franchise.