MORE night mail trains could soon be running if a trial scheme is successful.
The trains were axed by Royal Mail but resurrected, on a smaller scale, following discussions with rail firm GB Railfreight.
GB Railfreight, part of transport company First, is running two services between Scotland, the North and London up to December 22 to accommodate the busy Christmas period.
It plans to continue services after Christmas on a trial basis with a view to a longer term contract with Royal Mail.
Royal Mail was criticised for its decision to axe the night mail trains, which included a service between Newcastle, Darlington and York, in favour of air and land transport.
A spokesman for GB Railfreight said: "If we can prove that there is value still to be had from using the railways, then we may well be able to negotiate a bigger and longer contract."
Fran Critchley, of the North-East rail passengers committee, said: "We welcome the night mail trains since they get traffic off the congested roads, making use of our rail network."
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