NORTHERN Rail passengers in Yorkshire will benefit from more modern, larger and more reliable trains, thanks to Government money.

The move follows an agreement with Angel Trains, supported by the Transport Department.

It will mean Northern Rail, a Serco-Ned Railways joint venture, can replace 24 of the ageing Pacers - Class 142 trains, built about 20 years ago - now serving the region with more modern and passenger friendly Sprinter trains featuring more comfortable seating and ride quality.

Heidi Mottram, managing director of Northern Rail, said: "This is fantastic for our passengers. It will strengthen our services and bring a range of benefits including a step change in ride quality and train environment.

"I am delighted at the outcome of this deal, which validates the customer-focused and partnership- driven approach that Serco- Ned Railways have brought to the Northern Rail franchise."

She added:

"Passenger journeys are now over 75m a year, which is a 19% increase since the start of the franchise. This will ease crowding on some of our busiest services."

Thirty Sprinter trains will be introduced - some from as early as this month - and will provide extra seats on some of the busiest routes in Yorkshire.

The new deal comes just months after the recent introduction of six extra trains on services in and through West Yorkshire following a groundbreaking £20m partnership between Northern Rail, Yorkshire Forward development agency and the Metro public transport organisation.