PASSENGERS whose train is delayed by 15 minutes or more are now eligible for compensation.

Launched today, the Delay Repay 15 scheme – known as DR15 – is aimed at improving the compensation provided for Northern passengers.

It is an extension of the current system which deals with services which are delayed by 30 minutes or more.

Announcing the scheme, rail minister Andrew Jones said: "Extending Delay Repay to cover 15 minute delays is the right thing to do for northern passengers. Our absolute priority is delivering the reliable services passengers deserve, but when things go wrong people must be compensated fairly and quickly.

"We are also investing £15 million on enhancements for passengers across the north, ensuring we deliver improvements that passengers want alongside more comfortable and punctual services."

Richard Allan, deputy managing director at Northern, said the firm was "truly sorry" for disruption and has paid special compensation to more than 11,000 passengers since the summer.