THE future of the region's rail network will be debated at York's National Railway Museum next week.

Rail Minister Claire Perry will be joined by campaigners and experts to discuss issues arising from the refranchising of the the Northern Rail and TransPennine Express (TPE) contracts.

The event is being organised by the Campaign for Better Transport and the museum.

Experts including including Alex Hynes, of Northern Rail, and Chris Dale, of Travelwatch North West, will discuss the future of railways in the north.

Stephen Joseph, chief executive from the Campaign for Better Transport, said the future of northern England's rail network was up for grabs and some key questions needed to be answered.

"Will it be growth, investment, improvements - or fare rises, service cuts and savings?

"This event is a great chance to hear from the Minister and rail experts about what's planned and what's needed.

"It's also a great chance to make you're own voice heard if Northern England is to get the rail network it deserves."

The Northern Echo has launched the Right Lines campaign which calls for North-East rail passengers to get the best possible deal from the refranchising of the Northern and TPE lines.

It is feared that the exercise could lead to less profitable services being axed and some stations closed.

Concerns that fares will rise without a corresponding increase in the quality of service have also been expressed.

Last week, David Cameron confirmed that the unpopular Pacer trains used on many Northern services would go, however the pledge came with a proviso that ticket prices would need to increase to pay for the investment.

The seminar will take place at the National Railway Museum, York, from 6pm until 8pm on Wednesday, November 19.