NORTHERN says its drive to improve its customers' experience is on the right track following a number of summer successes.

This summer saw the introduction of new trains, the retirement of the first Pacer train, more refurbished trains and great value offers on tickets.

It said these all combined to give Northern customers better comfort, facilities and value for money than ever before.

David Brown, Northern's managing director, said: "Our focus is on delivering the best possible journey experience for our customers - and, with 20 brand new trains launched on the network, there can be little doubt that we are delivering significant improvements.

"Our new trains feature free WiFi, air conditioning, at-seat charging and an all-round better experience. They are a step change for Northern and our customers and more will be introduced over the coming months. And, of course, the introduction of our new trains coincided with the retirement of the first Pacer train – with the majority expected to be removed by Christmas."

In September many customers will travel on the new trains at a fraction of the usual cost thanks to Northern's summer sale. More than 80,000 advance purchase tickets were available for just 10p, with the entire allocation selling out in just five days.

Season ticket holders have also been given great value offers with all Smart users invited to win back the cost of their tickets (up to £200).

The £500,000 giveaway, running until January 2020, has already seen more than 1,000 entries with over £125,000 to be given back to Smart customers this month.

Mr Brown added: "Our 10p ticket offer and Smart giveaway have provided our customers with fantastic value travel and thousands of people are now looking forward to cut-price journeys on our new and refurbished trains across the North."

Northern’s commitment to deliver the best possible service for its customers will continue throughout 2019, and into 2020, with the introduction of 101 new trains, the full refurbishment of its existing trains and the retirement of all Pacer trains.

It says there will also be further improvements at stations and customers will continue to be given the opportunity to buy great value tickets.