Cumbria County Council is helping put bums on seats on the Cumbria Coast railway line this summer in a joint initiative with train operator Northern Rail.
Funding from the county council's public transport department and Northern Rail is helping pay for extra carriages on the trains that run up and down the Cumbria Coast line between Barrow and Carlisle during the summer.
The service carries around three-quarters of a million people each year. Summer is by far the busiest time with an annual influx of visitors wanting to reach Ravenglass for the L'al Ratty line and other west coast destinations, as well as the increased number of children using the line in the school summer holiday.
Previous summer seasons have seen standing room only available at busy times. The new initiative, which will make most trains run with two or three carriages instead of just one, means all passengers should be able to enjoy the ride through some of Cumbria's finest scenery from the comfort of their own seat.
John Kitchen, is the county council's rail officer. He has been instrumental in setting up the Community Rail Partnership for the Cumbrian Coast Line which brings together local authorities, train operators, rail freight companies, rail users and other stakeholders to develop and improve the line.
He said: "Last year and in previous years we saw too many people having to stand up at the busiest times of the year. That is why we have been working with Northern Rail to make sure everybody gets a seat. It is part of a long term programme to develop to progress the development of the line."
In fact, Northern Rail has now designated the Cumbria Coast Line as a Showcase Route.
Steve Butcher, Area Director of Northern Rail said: "With our 'through' ticketing scheme with the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway and our great value Cumbrian Coast Day Ranger tickets, there has never been a better time to explore this picturesque line. With the additional carriages our customers will be able to let the train take the strain while enjoying breathtaking views and scenery."
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