Network Rail has confirmed important improvement works on a stretch of the West Coast Main Line have been completed.

Engineers spent nine consecutive days replacing junctions and relaying track between Preston and Warrington and the company hopes this will result in more reliable train journeys in the future.

Network Rail is looking to spend up to £37 billion on infrastructure upgrades in the coming years and the busy West Coast Main Line will be central to these plans.

The organisation suggested the latest project in the north-west of England could set the tone for other redevelopment work, as trains were able to run at 80 mph on the new track straight away. Usually, locomotives are restricted to just 50 mph when tests are being carried out.

Martin Frobisher, area director for Network Rail, said: "I'm pleased that under some tough weather conditions we've been able to deliver on time, this vital improvement which will make journeys on the West Coast Main Line more reliable and punctual."