Britain’s railways are set for the biggest shake-up in quarter of a century as the government prepares to bring travel under state control.
A newly-launched public body, Great British Railways (GBR), will integrate the railways, own the infrastructure, collect fare revenue, run and plan the network, and set most fares and timetables.
However, private operators will continue to run most trains.
GBR will provide new Pay As You Go and flexible season tickets in an attempt to simplify the current travel ticketing system.
A new national flexi season ticket will be on sale from June 21, with potential savings of “hundreds of pounds a year” for 2 and 3 day-a-week commuters.
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The government vowed affordable walk-on fares and season ticket prices will be protected during the major reshuffle.
New public body GBR will integrate the railways – but private operators will still run most services / Image: David Dixon
Grant Shapps Transport Secretary, who is spearheading the changes, said that GBR would bring an end to “years of fragmentation, confusion and over-complication” in UK rail travel.
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He stated: “Great British Railways marks a new era in the history of our railways. It will become a single familiar brand with a bold new vision for passengers – of punctual services, simpler tickets and a modern and green railway that meets the needs of the nation.”
Shapps clarified: “This is not renationalisation, which failed the railways, rather it is simplification.
“While Great British Railways acts as the guiding mind to coordinate the whole network, our plan will see greater involvement of the private sector – private companies will be contracted to run the trains, with stronger competition to run services.”
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GBR is the product of the The Williams-Shapps Plan for Rail – a strategy for modern transport underpinned by new contracts that “prioritise punctual and reliable services [and] the rapid delivery of a ticketing revolution”.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said GBR would “deliver a rail system the country can be proud of”.
He added: “For too long passengers have not had the level of service they deserve.”
Andy Bagnall, the director general of the Rail Delivery Group, said the changes would allow “operators to put their customers at the absolute forefront of decision-making”.
He stated: “Getting the detail right will be crucial to ensuring that the white paper fulfils its potential to improve journeys, offer independent oversight and clear accountability, and create a new set of fares which are simpler and more value for money.”
Police appeal after teenage pedestrian is left in ‘critical condition’ following serious collision in Wigan
Emily Sergeant
A police appeal has been issued after a teenage girl was hit by a car and has been left in a critical condition.
Greater Manchester Police‘s (GMP) Serious Collision Investigation Unit are appealing for information following a collision in Wigan at around 6:05pm yesterday (30 December 2025), which involved a 16-year-old female pedestrian and a car.
A pedestrian, the female aged 16, was crossing Darlington Street in Wigan when a Seat Arona travelling west down Darlington Street collided with her.
The girl was taken to hospital and is currently a critical condition.
#APPEAL | We are appealing for information following a collision between a pedestrian and a car on Darlington Street, #Wigan at around 6.05pm on 30 December 2025
A 16-year-old girl was crossing the street when a Seat Arona travelling west down Darlington Street collided with her pic.twitter.com/FLTysE6LEh
The driver of the Seat Arona remained at the scene and no arrests have been made at this time, which is why police are appealing to the public for information
Officers from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit are asking for anyone with information to please come forward, and this includes anyone who saw the female prior to the collision, witnessed the incident itself, or who has dashcam footage of the incident.
Can you help? Anyone with any information is urged to contact police directly on 0161 856 4741, or via the Live Chat service at gmp.police.uk, quoting log 2598 of 30/12/2025.
Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
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Manchester Storm pays tribute to ‘cherished member’ of club family
Danny Jones
Local ice hockey side Manchester Storm and its supporters are paying tribute to team physiotherapist Cherry Woodhams, who has sadly died over the festive period.
Having become a recognisable face around the club and around the Storm Shelter at Planet Ice Altrincham, plenty of fans are now honouring and sharing stories about her.
Confirming the news on social media last weekend, MCR Storm wrote: “We are heartbroken to share the passing of Cherry Woodhams, our much-loved Team Massage Therapist and a cherished member of the Storm family.
The Sale-based physio tragically passed away following a brave battle with cancer; there has been an outpouring of love and support following the announcement.
We are heartbroken to share the passing of Cherry Woodhams, our much-loved Team Massage Therapist and a cherished member of the Storm family.
Cherry played an essential role behind the scenes, helping our players recover from the intense physical demands of the sport.
“Cherry played an essential role behind the scenes, helping our players recover from the intense physical demands of the sport.
“Through her skill, care, and unwavering dedication, she supported muscle recovery, reduced stress, and helped prevent injury – always ensuring our players were ready to perform at their best. More than her expertise, Cherry’s warmth is what made her so special.
“She was trusted, respected, and deeply loved by all who had the privilege of working with her. Our thoughts are with Cherry’s family, friends, and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.
“We are grateful for the time we shared with her and for the lasting impact she leaves on our club and our hearts. Rest peacefully, Cherry. You will always be part of the Storm family.”
Storm supporters and ice hockey heads, in general, have been sending thoughts to the club, along with her friends and family.
As well as fellow British side Guilford Flames sending their condolences, others, such as the fitness and sports rehabilitation centre she worked with, commented: “The most wonderful person… we will miss her immensely in Apex Gym.”
Former Storm player Callum Fryer added, “Cherry helped me out tremendously while I was playing for the Storm. So sad to hear of her passing. Rest in Peace, Cherry.”
Even people who “had the pleasure of playing on the ice with her” themselves in the past took the time to pay their respects to the “lovely soul.”
We have no doubt those in and around the club will find a way to honour her properly at their next home game against Sheffield Steelers on New Year’s Day (5:30pm, 1 Jan 2026).
Our thoughts and condolences go out to the Manchester Storm family, as well as all those who knew and loved Cherry. RIP.
The Manc -
20th May 2021 
