I was pleased to meet with John Lamont MP and other local leaders this week: to discuss the impact of recent East Coast Main Line timetable changes.

My focus was the full route throughout North Northumberland, but with a particular spotlight on Berwick-upon-Tweed. Berwick is a town with a rich and growing cultural offering that’s being held back by limited train services, especially during evenings and weekends.

Without more frequent and later stop-offs, Berwick’s cultural flourishing risks being cut off from the opportunities it deserves. I will continue to push for timetable changes that benefit Berwick residents and make it easier to visit the town.

I will also lobby Network Rail and the Department for Transport for the infrastructure investment up and down the whole East Coast Mainline in North Northumberland that will enable a better local and regional rail service.