North Yorkshire rail engineers work over Christmas on upgrades

Engineers carried out work on the tracks between Skelton and Beningbrough

Engineers have been working over Christmas to upgrade the railways in North Yorkshire, Network Rail said.

Hundreds of engineers worked from late on 24 December to Wednesday morning on upgrades at York Station and on tracks between Skelton and Beningbrough.

Network Rail said the work would mean smoother, more reliable and more frequent journeys for train passengers.

It said the work took place while trains were suspended on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

'Around the clock'

Engineers renewed parts of the tracks, including replacing switches and crossings which allow trains to move from one track to another.

Work was also completed on York Station's overhead electric wires.

Between Skelton and Beningbrough, teams installed new track and ballast, the specialist stones which rails sit on.

Paul Rutter, Route Director for Network Rail's East Coast route, said: "Engineers have worked around the clock since late on Christmas Eve, giving up their Christmases with loved ones, and I am grateful for the work they have completed, delivering benefits to passengers."