Watchdogs say Arriva has turned around its service

In its annual report, the Rail Passengers Committee has praised Arriva Trains Northern for transforming its service in a relatively short time.

Just months before Arriva loses its right to run trans-Pennine routes, the watchdog has announced a complete "turnaround" in the quality of service.

After launching a new air-conditioned service, passenger numbers rose 15%.

Arriva has also teamed up with the British Transport Police to urge residents to join a Neighbourhood Watch-style scheme for train stations.

Anti-social behaviour

Details will be posted through the doors of thousands of homes near to stations at Bingley, Guiseley, East Garforth and Mickleford.

Residents are being asked to call a British Transport Police freephone number to report any trouble at their stations.

Arriva schools liaison officer Chris Leech said the company is concerned that some youngsters are using stations to loiter on and become a nuisance.

"We want our station to be a welcoming and safe environment for our customers and, working with British Transport Police, we are determined to ensure that people who try to use our stations as a place to misbehave are caught.

"It is also important to remember that playing around on or near railway lines is incredibly dangerous."

British Transport Police chief inspector Danny Snee said the campaign aims to make youngsters aware that they can only go on to stations if they are waiting for a train.