The franchise was originally due to end on 31 March 2004, however a two-year extension was awarded to Govia by the Strategic Rail Authority on 13 February 2004.

[2] In December 2005, the Department for Transport awarded the new franchise to FirstGroup; thus the services operated by Thameslink were transferred to First Capital Connect on 1 April 2006.

During 2002, Thameslink hired two Class 317s from West Anglia Great Northern for services to Moorgate.

[3][full citation needed] Thameslink's fleet was originally maintained at Selhurst Depot under sub-contract by Connex South Central/Southern.

[4][full citation needed] With the Thameslink line to be severed for six months, Bedford Cauldwell depot was built in 2004.