A RAIL USER group boss representing the Brampton and Haltwhistle areas has spoken of his delight at the suspension of long-running strikes.

The strikes had totalled 47 separate days of action affecting the Tyne Valley railway line.

Users of the line, which connects Brampton and Haltwhistle to Carlisle, Newcastle and beyond, are championed by the Tyne Valley Rail Users’ Group.

The group’s chairman, Patrick Rice, welcomed the recently announced suspension of strike action.

“I know first-hand the very real issues rail users have faced, as the strikes have prevented me from visiting my own friends in Carlisle for some time now, due to the lack of essential trains back home on a Saturday night. And for those who rely on the trains for work, I know of many staff based in Newcastle and at intu Metrocentre for example, who have had to look at changing their shifts.”

Mr Rice was also grateful for the news that train conductors would remain on Northern Rail services, highlighting their importance to the Tyne Valley line.

“The Tyne Valley Line is a very remote service, and with nearly all stations unstaffed. It is absolutely essential that for a line such as this, a Conductor is available on every train in order to assist users, and to ensure passenger safety.

“It is our hope, moving forward therefore, that Northern and the RMT are able to reach a lasting agreement.”