A 25,000-strong Network Rail workforce has completed £148 million upgrades on the UK rail network over the Christmas period.

Some of the projects included upgrades to the overhead wiring system at Forest Gate junction, the installation of new track at Battersea Pier junction and the replacement of old switches and crossings on the Midland Main Line.

The track was also renewed at Holloway and signalling upgrades were delivered in Merseyside.

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A total of 330 projects were completed over the holidays across 380,000 hours.

Andrew Haines, chief executive of Network Rail, said: "Over Christmas and New Year thousands of rail workers have been working round the clock to keep the railway running and to deliver crucial improvements to the network as part of the £50bn railway upgrade plan.

"Our decision to do work at this time of year is entirely based on the fact that many regular passengers take this time as holiday, so it causes disruption to the smallest number of people. We really appreciate the patience of those who have been affected by this essential work, which will lead to better and more reliable train services."

(CM/MH)