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Network Rail and Great Western Railway (GWR) thanked passengers and lineside neighbours today for their patience following the completion, on time, of the first stage of work to pave the way for a bigger, better, more reliable railway for passengers in the south west and Thames Valley.

Network Rail has unveiled proposals to meet future growth in passenger and freight journeys in Wales and the borders.

Rail passengers in Wales are being reminded to check before they travel this Easter as Network Rail embarks on one of the biggest Easter investment programmes ever carried out on Britain’s rail network.

Hundreds of thousands of passengers and businesses using rail freight are set to benefit from one of the biggest Easter investment programmes ever carried out on Britain’s rail network.

Network Rail’s orange army will be transforming the 130-year-old Severn and Patchway tunnels this autumn in preparation for the arrival of a new fleet of longer, faster, quieter and greener electric trains.

The 130-year-old Severn Tunnel will close for six weeks from mid-September to upgrade it in preparation for a fleet of brand new electric trains which will result in more seats and faster, more reliable journeys for passengers.

Network Rail’s orange army has reached the next milestone to improve safety at Ufton Nervet by beginning construction of the bridge to replace the level crossing.

Apprenticeships provide a fantastic opportunity for anyone who wants to learn new skills and is prepared to work hard and get ahead. This is the message during National Apprenticeship Week from Jay Williams who completed his Network Rail apprenticeship in 2011.