Warning over rail timetable changes

NORTH East MP has warned railway bosses that changes to the timetable on the East Coast Mainline (ECML) would hit Northumberland communities hard.

- JAMES ROBINSON

Labour's David Smith, who represents North Northumberland, met with officials from Network Rail and LNER to call for new investment into the rail system.

It comes after changes on the ECML which will see additional services between London and Newcastle at the expense of fewer stops at smaller stations. In Northumberland, Berwick, Alnmouth and Morpeth will all see reduced stops when the changes come into force in December.

The move has prompted outcry from North East leaders and rail campaigners. Mr Smith said the changes would have a negative impact on Berwick in particular.