The Channel Tunnel is set to fully reopen five months after September's devastating blaze, despite initial predictions reconstruction work would take at least six months.

Eurotunnel plans a series of tests at the start of February and expects full capacity to be restored on the night of February 9 - 10.

From this date, Eurotunnel shuttles and Eurostar trains will be able to travel through the tunnel at normal commercial speeds, instead of the current reduced speeds.

Five of the six sections which make up the tunnel are currently operational.

Jacques Gounon, Eurotunnel's chairman, said: "I congratulate all those involved. They have delivered the restoration in record time."

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