An extensive programme of improvements to the East Coast Main Line has reached a midpoint, and passengers have been thanked for their patience during the work.

Two weekends of work have already been completed between York and Newcastle, with new track and switches fitted across numerous locations, and overhead line equipment upgraded and disused material removed in or near Darlington.

There are still two weekends of work which will see further track renewals south of Newcastle and at Northallerton.

Some services will still run using a diversionary route, and rail replacement buses will be in place to keep passengers connected.

Passengers are advised to allow extra time for journeys and to check online before they travel.

“We’re carrying out a significant package of upgrades on the East Coast Main Line to keep trains running safely and reliably for the millions of passengers who depend on the route. We appreciate this work does mean changes to weekend services, and we’re grateful to passengers for their patience while we complete these upgrades.”

Gunnar Lindahl, joint operations director for Network Rail and LNER