FRUSTRATED rail passengers often claim that their complaints are not taken seriously by train companies and that they could do the job much better.

Now they are being given the chance to put things right by one which has suffered from more than its fair share of brickbats.

Arriva Trains Northern is encouraging travellers to adopt their local train station.

Volunteers who sign up are asked to carry out spot checks to address the typical gripes of a daily commuter.

They include checking that announcements are audible and correct, pay phones are working and that the station is clean and tidy.

Other checks are made to ensure that staff are courteous and efficient, and that train standards are up to scratch.

Questionnaires are available to fill out and return to the company for feedback.

Arriva says the aim is to identify any problematic issues and make sure they are addressed quickly.

Those signing up to the scheme and who file twice weekly reports for a month receive a free rail pass valid for three months allowing travel on any of the company's services.

A number of stations have already been adopted by the public, but another 86 across its network remain.

They include Bishop Auckland, Heighington, Shildon, Teesside Airport and Yarm.

Arriva's recent problems began when it was forced to cancel hundreds of services last year because of a shortage of drivers.

It is now grappling with an pay dispute involving its conductors and retail staff.

Peter Davies, of rail campaign group Rail Future, said: "This is pretty unusual - I believe Arriva is only the operator to do this - but it is an excellent idea.

"It is a good way of getting passengers back on their side and I only wish other companies would follow suit."

* Anyone wanting to adopt should call Dana on (0870) 9039191.