Due to increased demand Network Rail is seeking to recruit 15 additional apprentices for its 2016 intake.

More rail journeys happened last year than at any time in railway history, Network Rail’s annual report reveals today, enabling economic growth, job creation and housebuilding. The report details how the company is responding in terms of a greater focus on customers, an uncompromising focus on safety, a focus on economies and the delivery on time and budget of significant enhancements across the railway network.

Trials of additional ticket barriers will take place at Bristol Temple Meads station in the coming weeks as part of Network Rail’s Railway Upgrade Plan, with the aim of easing passenger congestion during peak travel times.

Longer trains and platforms, more services and upgraded stations are among the steps proposed to meet a forecast 49% increase in demand for rail travel in the West Midlands and Chilterns regions over the next seven years.

Network Rail has unveiled its new railway bridge over Aldershot High Street, alongside representatives from the Aldershot Garrison, Aldershot F.C. and Rushmoor Borough Council who were representing Sir Gerald Howarth, MP.

Network Rail has given students from the City of London Academy first-hand experience of driving trains and operating signalling equipment as part of the inaugural Rail Week.

Over 10,000 children in Wales and the borders have received vital rail safety education in the past ten months.

Employees from Network Rail visited a number of Newport schools this week in a bid to bridge the skills gap and inspire a new generation of children into rail careers.