The boss of North Yorkshire-based rail company Northern has urged passengers not to use dating apps on its trains.

Matt Rice, chief operating officer at Northern, said such sites have been blocked from on-board WiFi servers as some may not be suitable for all passengers, especially children.

“We welcome millions of people on-board our trains every year – and access to safe and reliable internet is part and parcel of our customers’ expectations,” he said.

“Whilst some dating websites – and users – will operate with appropriate levels of self-moderation, some might not and it’s important that content not suitable for everyone to see or hear – particularly children – isn’t viewed on our trains.

“With some of the other banned categories – it’s simply about ensuring that there is sufficient bandwidth for all our customers to use while they’re on the go.

“This on-board dating app embargo aside, we wish our single customers all the best in their search for their perfect partner.”

A Northern spokesperson added that websites and apps related to video streaming, gambling, alcohol, adult content, pornography and nudity are also blocked onboard, as are software updates and file-sharing services. Last year the rail firm reminded passengers that NSFW (not suitable for work) content was not appropriate on its trains.

“If something is ‘not suitable for work’ it’s more than likely not suitable in our stations or on-board our trains either – so please wait until you get home,” said the chief operating officer Tricia Williams.