‘Classy’ English accent may work

A Frenchman who became a hit with his ‘sexy’ train announcements says an English accent in French could be just as popular.

Vincent Houplain, from La Rochelle who does the train announcements at Edinburgh Haymarket station, has developed a following among commuters who love his 'sexy' accent.

“It makes me really happy that I can make people smile while they’re waiting for their trains. Luckily my wife doesn’t take this seriously,” said Mr Houplain.

“I am pleased that I can do something so simple to make people smile, and obviously it is very good for my ego.”

“I think that an English accent in French would bring as much pleasure in France. We find the accent very classy and it would particularly be a success on the Atlantic coast, where there is already a very British atmosphere,” he added.

Mr Houplain moved to Scotland in 2001 after meeting a Scottish woman, who is now his wife. He joined FirstScot Rail in 2005 initially working with hospitality on the trains.

“During the Six Nations Tournament I suggested that it would be a good idea to do the station announcements in French for the French supporters. Since then I was invited to continue making the announcements,” said Mr Houplain.

It first became apparent that his accent was a hit with commuters when they started mentioning it at the ticket counter. This positive response has been coming from both male and female travellers.

Photo:flickr Glen Bowman