Passengers sought to challenge Network Rail

Network Rail is asking the public to hop on board and hold it to account.

Yesterday, the government-backed owner and operator of Britain's track, bridges and tunnels, advertised for 15 new "public members", who act like shareholders but do not receive a dividend. Until last year, there were 60 members from the rail industry and 40 from the public who can challenge Network Rail on director appointments, finances and health & safety.

However, the industry members have since been axed, meaning that the balance of power has shifted to the passenger, at a time when there are more Britons travelling by train than since the 1920s. The 15 new members will replace those who have come to the end of their three-year term.