Ms Green will test disabled facilities on the trains

Kate Green, from Berkshire, has been chosen to be a "mystery passenger" for First Great Western.

The 26-year-old, who has mobility and hearing problems and is visually impaired, was appointed to test the company's new Disabled Persons Protection Policy.

The firm is currently looking at �4m plans to improve facilities at every one of its 14 stations.

'A step forward'

Ms Green said: "Having corresponded with First Great Western on disability issues in the past, I am delighted to be in a position now to gauge what the company is doing well and where it could improve.

"The publication of the policy is a real step forward and I will be providing regular feedback to directors and senior managers."

The 24-page policy, approved by the Strategic Rail Authority, covers issues facing the disabled such as buying tickets, travelling to stations themselves, catering and toilet facilities.

The firm's new Adelante fleet already has a number of additional features for those with disabilities, including high-visibility doors, Braille and call-for-help buttons next to its priority seating.