THE Arriva transport group has seen its bid to run a rail franchise turned down.

The organisation, based in Sunderland, failed even to make the shortlist for the Northern Rail contract.

Instead, the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA) chose Serc/Ned Railways and FirstGroup, despite Arriva Trains Northern running part of the area that will make up the franchise, due to begin in autumn next year.

Arriva said it was disappointed by the decision, but the announcement was greeted with delight by the Rail Maritime and Transport Union.

Bob Crow, general secretary of the union, which was involved in a long-running pay dispute with Arriva Trains Northern, said everyone would be glad to see the company gone.

"It is good riddance to an awful company that failed the public and failed its workforce."

Arriva issued a statement on behalf of chief executive Bob Davies, which said: "We note the decision by the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA) concerning the new Northern Rail franchise.

"Whilst disappointed with the outcome, we will work closely with the SRA and the company selected to operate the franchise to ensure a smooth transition."

The company would make no further comment.

The franchise could be as long as eight-and-three-quarter years, with the last two years dependent on performance targets being achieved.

It will incorporate rural and urban services throughout the North of England, including in and around the Greater Manchester, South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire and Tyne and Wear Passenger Transport Executive (PTE) areas.

It will also be responsible for a number of services running from, and into, the Merseyside PTE area.

SRA operations managing director Nicola Shaw said: "The Northern Rail franchise will be one of the first of a new generation of customer-focused operations, designed to deliver for passengers."