Network Rail has officially opened the new third line on the Midland Main Line between Kettering and Harrowden junction.

The £11.5 million scheme, which was completed by those in rail jobs over the May bank holiday, will improve train punctuality for thousands of Midlands' rail commuters.

Route director Dyan Crowther said that the stretch of third line was "vital" in terms of boosting capacity and improving the quality of service.

"More and more people want to use our railways and continued targeted investment will contribute to the railway's ongoing success," he commented.

A total of 7km of new track has been laid between Kettering and Harrowden junction, with the first train using the new line on May 26th.

Construction work began in January and was completed to schedule and within budget.

Network Rail and British Transport Police earlier this month completed a major grafitti clean-up operation in the approach to Birmingham New Street and Snow Hill stations.