Osborne calls for end to Pacer trains

Chancellor George Osborne has urged voters to 'stay the course' with his economic plan

During his Autumn Statement this week, however, Mr Osborne gave no hint as to when they will be replaced or what will be the alternative.

Campaigners have raised concerns that the trains likely to replace the Pacers are older and slower - Pacers are 30-years-old with a top speed of 75mph - the replacement London D78s will be 45-years-old next year and have a top speed of 60mph.

Stephen Waring, chairman of Halifax and District Rail Action Group (HADRAG), said: “I cannot speak for other user groups across the North of England, but the proposed D-trains would be completely unsuitable for just about all services on our Calder Valley line.”

Linda Riordan, Labour MP for Halifax, said: “Halifax MP Linda Riordan said: “I’ve heard many times that the Pacer units will be axed, but it never seems to happen. It’s time for action, not words. Passengers deserve better. They don’t just want the awful Pacers to go. They want new trains, extra capacity and lower fares. This Government has delivered on none of these.”