Marcus' Model Railway Journey

LATER THAT DAY..........

Bob: I see the 'Big Man' has got us some new transport.

Phil: Yep, that'll save the team walking

Bob: So what do ya think?

Phil puts his hands on his hips (his usual stance - which seems permanent )

Phil: I'm over the moon!

29th June 2023

STATION CAT SPOT

Tess in the garden

And Leia too!

29th June 2023


TANGENT MAN STRIKES AGAIN!
Just when you thought it was safe to be informed only on railway topics!

Back in the garden

White Astilbe

White Astilbe close-up

Patio Lilac

Patio Lilac Close-Up

Variegated Hosta

The garden today - a lovely cool evening

30th June 2023


TRANSPORT FOR WALES

Transport for Wales announce Improvement plan for Wrexham to Bidston Rail Line​

Transport for Wales has announced a 5-step improvement plan for rail services on the Wrexham to Bidston line in North Wales and the borders.

James Price, Transport for Wales CEO recently visited North Wales to see the new Class 230 trains that operate on the route. He also had a tour of the train depot in Birkenhead, that TfW has recently invested in to help maintain the new trains.

The 5-step plan includes improving the reliability of the new Class 230 trains through investment into the new depot at Birkenhead, improving customer service and information available during disruption and keeping all rail replacement to a minimum.

Learning from customer feedback, TfW will also make buying tickets as easy as possible and is reviewing all ticketing options, as well as continually reviewing the rail timetable.

James Price, Transport for Wales CEO said:

“We understand the frustrations of passengers using the Wrexham to Bidston line over the past few months. First the line lost its train service due to a safety issue with engines on our trains and this resulted in replacement buses running.

“Following that, we introduced our refurbished Class 230 trains to the line and unfortunately, we’ve experienced teething problems and technical issues.

“However, I’m happy to announce today that we now have a 5-step improvement plan in place that will focus on stabilising the reliability of our new trains and improving the service. I’ve visited the new depot in Birkenhead that will allow us to carry out maintenance on our Class 230s at a faster pace and have assured myself that we are doing everything possible to see an improvement in the service over the coming months.”

WATCH:
Transport for Wales announce Improvement plan for Wrexham to Bidston Line

Full plan available here:

North Wales and the Borders statement of commitments

Deputy Minister for Climate Change Lee Waters has today brought together key stakeholders to review Transport for Wales’ commitments to delivering the best rail service possible for North Wales in the short- and mid-term.

Following the workshop, Transport for Wales is pleased to announce the following commitments:

1. We will be appointing a dedicated route officer to delve deep into the issues on the line and develop a long term focus on performance and reliability

Transport for Wales will be committing a senior rail professional to provide a focus and coordination of the workstreams involved in delivering the first class reliable service users of the line deserve.

This role will be for an initial 3 month period from July to October and will involve creating close and productive relationships with local managers and teams, including Fleet, Drivers, Conductors, Train Planning, Control, Stations, Revenue Protection, Birkenhead North depot, On Train Cleaners, Performance, Facilities, Ops Readiness

This cross-functional role will develop a plan to encapsulate all the improvement initiatives designed to restore stability in service delivery.

The role will also involve developing relationships with local stakeholders, politicians, councillors and user group reps to keep them informed of what we are doing in conjunction with TfW stakeholder managers.

A high-level public improvement plan will then be developed and shared with stakeholders on a regular basis.

1. We commit to delivering the maximum level of reliability to our Class 230 fleet and optimising the current provision

Our Route Officer will be working with front line teams to deliver clear engineering actions to improve reliability and availability of our Class 230 fleet.

The five trains are dedicated to the line and were specifically purchased by the Welsh Government to serve the line and allow additional services.

Optimising the 1 train per hour service will encompass:

• (i) Managing our capability of delivering a fully functioning Class 230 on the line
• (ii) Working with our partners in Network Rail on our timetable access rights
• (iii) Improving driving styles and familiarity with the units amongst train crew so they are able to give the best performance and spot potential problems earlier.

We are currently running repairs and maintenance “in house” to address some technical challenges.

To this end we have invested in the depot facilities at Birkenhead North.

Using Birkenhead means the Class 230s no longer need to travel to Chester for maintenance and servicing.

We have put in place a manager and team of technicians working around the clock to deliver excellent maintenance to ensure we achieve the highest possible levels of reliability and improving our MTIN score (Miles Per Technical Incident).

Moving forward we will be considering longer term maintenance options both internal and with third party expertise to ensure highest levels of reliability, efficiency and value for our customers.

1. We commit to keep all rail replacement to a minimum.

Recognising the impact of rail replacement on rural north Wales and the challenges this creates for customers, we commit to run a rail service wherever we possibly can.

When there are shortages of fleet in other areas we will consider very carefully the impact of reallocating trains and will only do so in exceptional circumstances.

Our Route Officer will be walking in the shoes of customers to understand the impact of cancellations.

The officer will also work closely with our road transport provides for times where this use is unavoidable so we can make this a truly customer friendly service.

We will continue to review our processes and commit to ongoing engagement with the people who use the service.

1. We will continually review our timetable with customers at the forefront

Our timetable and the services we run needs to meet the needs of as many of our customers and potential customers as possible.

Working with stakeholders and customer groups, we commit to reviewing our services to ensure we have the right services calling at the right stations at the right times when planning what we run.

Calling patterns on key services will continue to be reviewed as customer needs and demands evolve.

As part of this commitment, our Route Officer will make recommendations on future timetables taking account the needs of users of the line as well as what we are confidently able to deliver for them for both the existing base 1tph service pattern and the future planned enhanced 2tph train plan.

Through our Route Officer, we will work even closer with Rail User Groups to develop further detailed plans, and to work up key metrics in collaboration.

1. We commit to review our fares and ticketing across north Wales to make buying tickets and traveling as easy as possible.

Learning from customer feedback is vital especially around the ease and convenience of buying and using tickets and we commit to address the issues raised on the line alongside industry partners.

Increasingly we are seeing the public demand for mobile tickets, and we are investigating all options to make these as easy to use as possible when traveling into other transport regions in the area.

We know there is a problem with using some of these mobile (M) tickets on the Mersey Rail network and we commit to working with our partners in that region to resolve this as quickly as possible.

Across Wales and the Borders we are partnering with Pay Zone to explore opportunities for people to buy a physical rail ticket in a local business.

This gives added confidence in buying before you board and will also be an economic boost to local shops. We are committed to actively exploring these options on the line.

30th June 2023

Transport for London orders additional new trains for Docklands Light Railway​

Transport for London has ordered an additional 11 new trains for the Docklands Light Railway.

The additional trains have been funded by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) and will mean a total of 54 new trains will be introduced from 2024.

The new trains are being built by CAF, who were awarded the original contract in 2019 for 43 trains.

The first two new trains are undergoing testing ahead of their introduction in 2024.

Testing is currently taking place in overnight engineering hours and during some planned closures but later this year customers will see test trains running during the day in gaps between normal services

TfL says that all of the new trains will be introduced by the end of 2026.

Seb Dance, Deputy Mayor for Transport, said: “More than 90 million journeys made each year the DLR is the busiest light railway in the UK and these new DLR trains will provide Londoners with more frequent, reliable and comfortable journeys from 2024. Each train will feature 10 per cent more capacity and also provide better facilities for those with mobility impairments. The DLR is a vital transport option for east London and the Docklands area and these upgrades will support new jobs and homes in the area, helping to make London a greener, fairer and more prosperous city for all.”

Tom Page, TfL's General Manager for the DLR, said: “These new DLR trains will transform the journeys of millions of existing customers but will also give us the opportunity to welcome many more as new jobs and homes are created in east London and the Docklands area. Testing is progressing well ahead of the trains being introduced from 2024 and I really look forward to welcoming this new fleet to help contribute to the DLR's continuing success.”

Lutfur Rahman, The Mayor of Tower Hamlets, said: “Tower Hamlets is home to a rapidly growing population, and these improvements to the DLR network will vastly improve accessibility for all, making it easier for residents and visitors to travel around our borough.

“Our borough will greatly benefit from the new DLR trains, particularly with the new homes undergoing construction on the Royal Docks and the Isle of Dogs. Accessible, efficient, and dependable public transport is crucial to ensuring safer and greener journeys for all residents.”

Richard Garner, CAF UK Director, said “CAF is absolutely thrilled to be supplying 11 additional trains to DLR to supplement the original order of 43 trains and play our part in the growth and accessibility of London”

30th June 2023

New Vehicle for ETHNON RAIL

On top of the previous recent purchases for Phil and Bob's team.

I have ordered another Rover, I know how much they like theses vehicles.

30th June 2023

New Locomotive for ETHNON RAIL

I used to watch these Class 57's at Cardiff Canton so I was looking forward to acquiring one of these models.

Problem I had initially was that the model came into stock this week and my Birthday isn't until December.

So I asked Neonlake if he could buy me it early as they may sell out.

So he said "yes OK Dad, just remember I've bought your present early and don't forget!"

So I've ordered it!

1st July 2023

Flying Scotsman Returns to Doncaster to Celebrate Centenary​

Flying Scotsman, the iconic steam locomotive known as the most famous in the world, has made a poignant return to Doncaster, the city where it was built a century ago.

The locomotive's centenary was commemorated with a warm reception at Doncaster Railway Station, attended by invited guests, civic dignitaries, and family members with proud connections to the renowned Flying Scotsman.

This special visit was organised by the City of Doncaster Council and London North Eastern Railway (LNER), with support from the National Railway Museum.

Arriving at Doncaster Railway Station, Flying Scotsman took centre stage on Platform 4, evoking nostalgic sentiments among those in attendance.

The locomotive holds a significant place in Doncaster's history, as it was the first locomotive built at the Doncaster Works by the newly established LNER in 1923, a milestone also being celebrated during the LNER's centenary this year.

Over her forty years of service, Flying Scotsman achieved remarkable feats, breaking numerous world speed and distance records.

She played a vital role on the East Coast Main Line, connecting the capitals of England and Scotland, as one of the famous locomotives introduced by LNER. Flying Scotsman went into service on February 24, 1923, at a cost of £7,944.

She holds the distinction of being the first locomotive to officially reach 100mph in the UK and the first to circumnavigate the globe, leaving an indelible mark in the annals of railway history.

Among the guests gathered on Platform 4 was Molly Jackson, whose father, Wilston Samuel Jackson, proudly contributed to LNER's legacy.

In 1962, Wilston Samuel Jackson became Britain's first black train driver, enjoying a long and successful career driving famous locomotives for LNER, including the iconic Flying Scotsman.

His presence at the event exemplified the intergenerational ties and deep connection that families have with the storied locomotive.

You can read more about WIlston Samuel Jackson at the Black History Month website.

To celebrate Flying Scotsman's centenary year, a series of events are taking place throughout Doncaster.

Schools, museums, and libraries are actively participating in the festivities, highlighting the locomotive's historic significance.

Mayor of Doncaster, Ros Jones, said: “I am delighted to welcome Flying Scotsman back home to her birthplace here in Doncaster. We are incredibly proud of our rail heritage, and we will always be associated with this iconic locomotive.

“We are looking forward to another visit later this year, where Flying Scotsman will be here in Doncaster once again and members of the public will have the chance to see the locomotive up close. More details about this will be shared in the coming weeks.

“I would like to thank LNER for hosting this wonderful event today and we congratulate them for 100 years of history. I would also like to thank the National Railway Museum for their support.”

David Horne, LNER Managing Director, said: “This is a proud day for Doncaster and a proud day for us here at LNER, welcoming Flying Scotsman back to the city where she was built in her centenary year. Over the past century, LNER has pushed boundaries to create ever greater feats of engineering, speed, comfort and customer service while improving journeys between London to Scotland. Flying Scotsman is part of that rich heritage, and that pioneering spirit continues in LNER today as we look to provide our customers with the best possible travel experience.”

1st July 2023

New data shows rail travel emits ten times less carbon than car travel​

Granular calculations show rail's green credentials​

LNER Azuma

The Rail Delivery Group (RDG) has released figures showing that rail travel creates ten times less carbon emissions per passenger than the equivalent car journey and thirteen times less than travelling by aeroplane.

The new data compares carbon emissions for a passenger journey from London King's Cross to Edinburgh Waverley, chosen as a typical long distance, electrified commuter train route.

It shows carbon emissions of:

• 12.5kgCO2e by train,
• 136.4kgCO2e by car
• 165.1kgCO2e by plane.

The study used detailed data is the first to use detailed data about railway journeys, including engine type, fuel type, journey distance, occupancy and carriage layout, and combine them to illustrate the environmental benefits of rail travel.

This method of calculation contrasts with the measure used by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra).

The RDG claims that its use of granular data more accurately demonstrates how travel choices impact carbon emissions.

LNER Azuma Edinburgh Waverley

The figures have been produced as part of the rail industry's Green Travel Pledge, which aims to encourage greener travel choices by providing detailed, empirical data on the carbon emissions of rail journeys.

The Rail Delivery Group Detailed has pledged to provide businesses with carbon emission data for rail journeys across Britain later this year.

It is working with Great British Railways Transition Team Thrust Carbon, Fabrik and Black Box Partnerships.

Jacqueline Starr, CEO at the Rail Delivery Group, said: “This is a preliminary result but it shows what we all know – that rail is by far the most sustainable travel choice for businesses and business travellers.

“Choosing rail over more polluting methods, like cars and planes, is an easy way to help protect the planet.

“We want to empower businesses to make greener travel choices.

“Businesses have been asking for a tool to demonstrate the environmental benefits of shifting business travel journeys from planes and cars to rail. We are now delivering this.

“We are really excited to be rolling out accurate and reliable carbon emission data for rail routes across Britain as part of our Green Travel Pledge later this year so businesses can accurately demonstrate how rail travel is helping them to reach their environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals.”

Kit Brennan, Founder and Head of Product at Thrust Carbon which has helped to develop the methodology behind the new rail carbon calculations, said: “Businesses always knew that rail was the greenest way to travel; but for the first time we now know just how much greener it is.

“This is the first time we've combined such granular data on occupancy, journey distance, carriage layout and a number of other factors to provide an accurate and reliable figure for greenhouse gas emissions.

“We are excited about expanding the rail carbon calculator to include rail routes across Britain to support businesses to travel more sustainably in future.”

Clive Wratten, CEO at the Business Travel Association (BTA), said: “We've heard loud and clear from our members and the business travel community, that consistency in carbon measurement is an imperative.

“This initiative from RDG on behalf of the whole rail industry has the potential to provide clarity and a robust green message to all parts of business travel.”

1st July 2023

TransPennine Express Celebrates Pride Month with LGBTQ+ Network​

Benjamin McGowan, a conductor based in Liverpool, is embracing Pride Month and taking pride in his involvement with TransPennine Express (TPE) LGBTQ+ network.

This network is committed to fostering inclusivity within the rail industry, and Ben is actively contributing to its mission.

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community himself, Ben recognises the importance of creating a welcoming environment for all passengers, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

TPE is making significant strides towards promoting diversity and inclusion by launching a ‘Pride Pack' for all its employees during Pride Month.

This comprehensive resource aims to educate colleagues about the history of Pride Month and offers guidance on how they can become supportive allies to the LGBTQ+ community.

By equipping its workforce with knowledge and tools, TPE is proactively creating a more inclusive workplace.

As an enthusiastic member of TPE's LGBTQ+ network, Ben actively participates in initiatives that advance diversity and inclusion within the organisation.

By joining forces with like-minded colleagues, he builds a supportive network that embraces individuality and celebrates the LGBTQ+ community.

Ben's dedication demonstrates TPE's commitment to fostering an environment where everyone feels accepted and valued.

Ben's passion for inclusivity extends beyond the workplace, as he strives to create safe and welcoming spaces for all passengers during their rail journeys.

Recognising the importance of providing an environment free from discrimination, Ben promotes understanding, respect, and acceptance among fellow employees and passengers.

His efforts contribute to cultivating a positive and inclusive travel experience for all.

TPE's commitment to celebrating Pride Month and supporting its LGBTQ+ network highlights the rail industry's dedication to fostering inclusivity.

TPE is committed to creating a more accepting and supportive environment for all employees and passengers by actively engaging with the Pride Pack and promoting education and awareness.

Pride Month, observed annually, serves as a joyous tribute to the numerous contributions that the LGBTQ+ community has made to history, society, and cultures across the globe.

This vibrant celebration typically takes place throughout the entirety of June, a month chosen to honour the historic significance of the Stonewall Riots, which occurred in June 1969 and marked a pivotal moment in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.

TPE is also decorating many of its stations for the duration of June with rainbow banners and flags to show support for the LGBTQ+ community.

Ben said: “For me, Pride isn't just celebrated in one month; it's celebrated the entire year. As a gay man, I feel like I can fully be myself and express my identity at work without fear of judgement.

“At TPE, we try to be supportive of all colleagues and are committed to fostering a sense of togetherness between our colleagues, customers, and the communities that we serve.

Ben added: “The LGBTQ+ network that I am a part of helps to guide TPE in how to be even more inclusive and celebrate diversity.

“There are so many simple ways in which you can show support whether that's including your pronouns on your email signature or wearing a visible symbol such as the rainbow pride lanyard.”

Harriet Harbidge, Diversity and Inclusion Manager for TPE, said: “While June marks Pride Month, we strive to create an inclusive environment at TPE year-round.

“We work closely with our LGBTQ+ networking group where our colleagues can have their say on what's most important to them and endeavour to create a welcoming environment for all.”

TEST

Oh, I forgot to write over this post.......

2nd July 2023

Train operator Greater Anglia prepares for Pride events​

Over the next few months, a number of Pride events are being held in Greater Anglia's region and the company is doing its part by encouraging anyone taking part to let the train take the strain when travelling to events and festivals.

Several key events are being held in places served by the company, so that everyone across the East of England can take part, with events in the following places:

• Suffolk Pride, centred around Ipswich (Friday, 30th June to Sunday, 30th July)
• London Pride (Saturday, 1st July)
• Southend Pride (Friday, 7th to Saturday, 15th July)
• Ely Pride (Saturday, 29th July)
• Norwich Pride (Saturday, 29th July)
• Colchester Pride (Saturday, 12 August)

On Sundays 9th and 16th of July, engineering works will take place in the area between Ipswich, Cambridge, and Ely, and buses will replace trains on those dates.

On 29th July, buses are due to replace trains between Ely and Norwich, and industrial action is also planned for that date.

Customers are advised to check their journey details at www.greateranglia.co.uk before they travel.

During last month, flags and bunting were put up by Greater Anglia staff at its stations as part of this year's Pride events.

The company also launched a workshop called ‘Greater Together', which is designed to encourage all of the company's staff, regardless of their role, to discuss their own life experiences, view actions from a different perspective, tackle any unconscious biases, and challenge their own thinking.

Earlier this year, a group for LGBT+ colleagues and allies called ‘Affinity' was set up and is being run by frontline staff and members of management with the aim of inspiring action, education, and connection.

It also is intended to support and act as a community around the topic of sexuality and make sure the company is as inclusive as possible.

Jamie Gooch, Senior Conductor based at Norwich and member of the Affinity group, said: “Since coming to work for Greater Anglia, I've been very lucky to be able to be my true self at work and to feel comfortable in doing so.
“The fact that I identify as a gay man has not had any impact on the way my managers or colleagues treat me at work.

“Many of our customers and colleagues are part of the LGBT+ community and the areas in which we live can be quite isolated due to the rural nature. This can lead to feelings of isolation within the LGBT+ community.

“We are in a prime position to help people to get to Pride events and tackle this isolation by connecting all members of the community. We truly can assist in bringing people together.”

Liam Reynolds, Customer Service Supervisor at Shenfield station and member of the Affinity group said: “It is always heart-warming to see the railway come together to celebrate events, including Pride.

“There is always a great buzz around the station and network when customers are heading to the festivals.”

Martin Moran, Greater Anglia's Commercial Director, said: “Our staff always are passionate around events and festivals and Pride is no exception.

“It is lovely to see our stations decorated for the celebration of Pride as well as the Affinity group and Greater Together workshop being set up to improve our knowledge of diversity even further.

“We're looking forward to transporting our customers to Pride festivals and to help with celebrations all over our network in the coming few months.”

2nd July 2023

New Vehicles Arrived for ETHNON RAIL

Phil and Bob were moaning that they haven't got enough road transport for their team.

So I bought three more vehicles which have arrived from North Yorkshire.

What's in the box?

76TK011 Oxford Diecast 1:76 British Rail Bedford TK Personnel Carrier
76TK014 Oxford Diecast OO Gauge British Rail Bedford TK Mobile Workshop
76CWT002 Oxford Diecast Commer Walk Thru British Rail Yellow

76TK011 Oxford Diecast 1:76 British Rail Bedford TK Personnel Carrier

Phil and Bob check the new delivery

Phil: I see the new transport has arrived.

Bob: Looks good!

Phil: Yep, I'm over the moon!

Bob: I'm chuffed to bits too.

Bob: I see he got some White Spirit and Meth's in as well, I wonder why he got some Meth's?

Phil: All shall be revealed in time, I'm sure.

Bob: Paint too?

Phil: That'll be for the baseboard tops.

3rd July 2023

Wabtec secures order for 17 narrow-gauge locomotives from Australia​

The CBH Group

Wabtec Corporation will supply 17 narrow-gauge diesel-electric locomotives to the CBH Group (CBH) of Australia.

CBH Group, otherwise known as Co-operative Bulk Handling, is a cooperative that handles, processes, and markets grain from Western Australia's wheatbelt.

The locomotives represent a significant investment in expanding CBH's rail fleet as part of its ‘Path to 2033 Strategy'. CBH will acquire 17 of the CM20ACi dual-cab, diesel-electric locomotives.

The first five locomotives will be delivered to Australia in the March quarter of 2026 and be operational soon after their arrival. The remaining 12 locomotives will be delivered in the June quarter of 2026.

In 2022, CBH opened three competitive Request for Proposal processes for the purchase of standard-gauge and narrow-gauge locomotives and wagons to expand and strengthen its rail fleet which currently stands at 25 locomotives and 572 wagons.

Seven standard-gauge locomotives were ordered last December, and they are scheduled to be delivered and operational by November 2024.

CBH Chief Executive Officer Ben Macnamara said: "The agreement with Wabtec will increase CBH's narrow-gauge locomotive fleet to 37."

“We are pleased to partner with Wabtec to acquire new narrow-gauge locomotives, a global leader in the design, manufacture and supply of quality locomotives.”

“Our rail fleet is a key asset for the co-operative and expanding our existing train sets is a strategic priority that is critical for us to achieve CBH's ‘Path to 2033' strategy that aims to lift our monthly export capacity to 3 million tonnes by 2033 or sooner.

“Expanding our narrow-gauge locomotive fleet, in conjunction with the expansion of our standard-gauge locomotive fleet, is a significant step to enhance our outloading capability.

“By investing in our supply chain network, we are ensuring we can deliver tonnes to customers when needed and therefore return sustained value to Western Australian growers.”

Wabtec President of Freight Equipment Rogerio Mendonca said the company was excited to be selected for the expansion of CBH's narrow-gauge locomotive fleet.

“The CM20ACi is a perfect addition to CBH's growing fleet.”

“These locomotives will provide CBH with low operational costs, high availability and proven reliability needed to succeed in today's competitive market.”

Wabtec Senior Regional Vice President, South East Asia, Australia, and New Zealand Wendy McMillan said: "The company is looking forward to supporting CBH's service of Western Australia's agriculture industry."

“These locomotives will enable CBH to increase grain shipments and drive CO2 emission reductions by moving more grain via rail.”

4th July 2023

Fifty-three railway stations to introduce tap-in-tap-out​

Fifty-three stations in south east England are to introduce tap-in-tap-out ticketing by the end of this year.

Government funding of £20 million is being spent on enabling passengers to use bank cards or smart devices to tap readers at stations and be charged the lowest price available on the day of travelling.

Pay As You Go is already available at more than three hundred and fifty stations across London and the south east, in an area that stretches from Reading and Gatwick Airport to Shenfield and Welwyn Garden City.

The addition of the fifty-three stations will bring the total number of tap-in-tap-out stations in England to over four hundred.

Thameslink train at Gatwick Airport

The Department for Transport announced the move in partnership with Transport for London, C2C, Southeastern, South Western Railway, London Northwestern, and Chiltern.

It follows the Transport Secretary's promise in his George Bradshaw Address to “reform and overhaul” fares and ticketing across Britain's railways, pledging to make fares simpler and more flexible.

The reform programme includes the recent single-leg pricing on LNER's network.

The government claims that this will encourage more people to travel by rail, which will help economic growth.

Pay As You Go is widely used in and around London.

Transport for London data shows that the proportion of journeys made using contactless payment cards or mobile devices on its Tube and rail network has increased from one-quarter to three-quarters since 2016..

Following this, the DfT is continuing to work with the Great British Railways Transition Team to extend Pay As You Go in the Midlands and the North of England, as part of ‘Trailblazer' devolution arrangements announced earlier this year with Greater Manchester and the West Midlands.

Transport for Greater Manchester last week announced details of a pilot scheme for Manchester's first contactless payment system on its rail network.

This is subject to final Government agreement and funding,

Further information on when each of the fifty-three south east stations will introduce pay-as-you-go will be available at the stations.

The fifty-three stations which will have pay-as-you-go technology by the end of 2023 are:

• Basildon
• West Horndon
• Sevenoaks
• Bletchley
• Benfleet
• Westcliff
• Shoreham (Kent)
• Bricket Wood
• Chalkwell
• Beaconsfield
• Ashford (Surrey)
• Cheddington
• East Tilbury
• Denham
• Datchet
• Garston
• Laindon
• Denham Golf Club
• Egham
• Hemel Hempstead
• Leigh-on-Sea
• Gerrards Cross
• Kempton Park
• How Wood
• Pitsea
• High Wycombe
• Shepperton
• Kings Langley
• Shoeburyness
• Seer Green & Jordans
• Staines
• Leighton Buzzard
• Southend Central
• Bat & Ball
• Sunbury
• Park Street
• Southend East
• Dunton Green
• Sunnymeads
• St Albans Abbey
• Stanford-le-Hope
• Eynsford
• Upper Halliford
• Tring
• Thorpe Bay
• Otford
• Virginia Water
• Watford North
• Tilbury Town
• Windsor & Eton Riverside
• Wraysbury
• Apsley
• Berkhamsted

Jacqueline Starr, Chief Executive of the Rail Delivery Group, said: “We have long called for fares to be made easier and more flexible for our customers – our extensive fare consultation in collaboration with the independent passenger watchdog Transport Focus in 2019 overwhelmingly demonstrated the need for modernising rail fares.

“The introduction of contactless, Pay As You Go payments is a significant step in the right direction. It eliminates the need to queue at ticket machines or pre-book paper tickets, allowing passengers to simply tap their contactless cards or devices to pay for their journey. We believe that embracing contactless technology will enhance the overall passenger experience and contribute to a more seamless journey on our network.”

Shashi Verma, Chief Technology Officer at Transport for London (TfL) said: “The popularity of convenient travel via a pay as you go system has seen it expand and become increasingly popular across London and the surrounding areas in recent years. We are delighted to be delivering this expansion of pay as you go with contactless to a further 53 stations across the South East for the Department for Transport (DfT), helping to share our experience in smartcard ticketing with the wider rail industry. This will help those traveling by rail outside London do so more flexibly and conveniently, and support the wider UK economic recovery through easier access to rail travel.”

Rail Minister Huw Merriman said: “One of the best ways to get more people using our railways is to make journeys as simple, flexible and convenient as possible and the Government's programme for rail reform prioritises exactly that.

“By removing the stress of finding the best deal in advance or having the right ticket ready to go at the barriers, the extension of tap-in tap-out ticketing is the next step of our plan for rail reform and we're working towards Pay As You Go being rolled out beyond the South East through the Midlands and up to the North.”