A CAMPAIGN to increase police cover on the region's rail network has been launched by Arriva Trains Northern and the British Transport Police (BTP).

They have joined forces to encourage employees from the train company to volunteer to become special constables, and earn an extra £1,000 a year.

Chief Superintendent David Hatcher launched the campaign at York's National Railway Museum.

He said: "This is an innovative joint working initiative and I am delighted to see a key transport organisation such as Arriva taking such a proactive and supportive approach.

"Special constables have proved invaluable in many police operations, and by potentially having a further 20, they will boost the capability of my colleagues in BTP on the region's rail network."

Those recruited will carry out a wide range of policing activities, from helping with football supporters travelling by rail, to tackling drug related crime on the network.

Dyan Crowther, Arriva's commercial director, who is leading the project, said: "What we are doing is working together to make best use of the support available to police the railway system and any increase in police presence on the network is always welcome news."

To volunteer, call (0113) 247 9558.