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Scientists are using cutting-edge technology along Britain’s 20,000-mile rail network, as part of Network Rail’s new action plan for sustainable vegetation management.

• Charlie Mackesy, author of the much-loved book The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse, has come together with Samaritans and Network Rail to encourage passengers and staff to reach out over a virtual cuppa and chat to those they care about during the winter months
• Charlie's illustration, of his beloved character the Mole, will be featured across Network Rail stations, including London Waterloo’s big screen, from January 18

• Network Rail makes Glassdoor’s list of Best Places to Work in the UK for the first time with a rating of 4.2 out of five
• Awards by Glassdoor are based on employee feedback

Network Rail, South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE) and Stagecoach Supertram have together launched the Tram Train Pilot Learning Hub, containing a wealth of information drawn from the collective experience of designing, constructing and operating Britain’s first Tram Train system.

Three Network Rail employees have been recognised in the New Year’s Honours list 2021, published on 30 December.

Trains of up to half a mile long are helping the rail freight industry deliver more goods for consumers and reduce UK carbon emissions.

Network Rail has joined forces with national conservation charity The Tree Council to plant more than 80,000 trees and hedgerows across the country this winter, as part of a four-year, £1 million tree planting pledge.

• As the rail industry works together to help people travel with confidence this Christmas, passengers are asked to plan in advance and book their outward and return journeys 
• 95% of the network is running as usual over the Christmas and New Year period, with essential engineering work taking place at key locations 
• Upgrade work will improve train reliability for passengers on several routes and boost connectivity between England and Scotland on the East Coast Main Line