RAIL passengers have named GNER as the best long-distance train operator in the UK, independent research released today reveals.

The York-based company has been given a huge thumbs-up in a national passenger survey commissioned by the Strategic Rail Authority.

It reveals that 85 per cent of GNER passengers are satisfied with the overall service they receive. This figure is four per cent better than the same period last year. The survey also shows that only seven per cent of passengers are dissatisfied.

GNER also out-scored the rail industry average on all other aspects measured, including frequency of service, connections and value for money.

The survey results mean that GNER has achieved the highest passenger satisfaction scores of any former InterCity train company since the SRA began six-monthly surveys, almost two years ago.

Jonathan Metcalfe, GNER's chief operating officer, said: "These results, which reflect our own market research, are very encouraging.

"Our 3,000 people have worked tirelessly to put passenger interests first and to deliver GNER's award-winning standards of service during some difficult times."However, we can never be complacent and there is always much more to do. In particular, train performance is still not as good as it should be, although today's survey shows that 76 per cent of passengers are satisfied with GNER's punctuality and reliability.

"This is also testimony to the way our staff look after passengers if services are delayed."

Updated: 10:29 Thursday, December 13, 2001