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 £15million 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.

He said: "We are truly sorry for the inconvenience caused by the disruption to rail services earlier this year and have paid special compensation to more than 11,000 season ticket and non-season holders since the summer.

"Now, with the launch of Delay Relay 15, those customers who experience day-to-day delays will be able to claim the compensation they want and deserve. Our team works hard to deliver a consistent, punctual service but delays do happen and extending the scheme is the right thing to do for our customers."

David Hoggarth, strategic rail director at Transport for the North, said: "The major disruption passengers across the north have endured this year has been unacceptable, it’s only right that they’re compensated when things go wrong.

"This a welcome move that will mean more people can claim now and in the future. Focus must now be getting services back on track."