A new report produced by the Rail Delivery Group reveals the growing popularity of rail travel in the UK.

According to the study, which was collated by KPMG, the average Briton is taking more rail journeys, travelling further and buying more discounted tickets than in the 1990s.

There has been a 60 per cent rise in the number of rail journeys taken by the average Briton since 1998, with the number increasing from 15 to 24.

The average Briton now travels 584 miles by train a year, compared to 380 miles 15 years ago.

Last year, nearly 50p in every £1 spent on rail fares went on discounted tickets - up from 36p ten years ago.

When the railways were privatised in the 1990s operator profits were £270 million in real terms, but the figure is now £250 million. 

Martin Griffiths, chairman of the Rail Delivery Group and Stagecoach Group chief executive, said: "Passengers in Britain are flocking to board Europe's best railway, attracted by newer trains, more services and great deals."