PASSENGERS whose Northern trains are delayed by more than 15 minutes are now entitled to claim compensation.

The Delay Repay 15 scheme – known as DR15 – was announced by rail minister Andrew Jones on Monday, December 17, and cuts the previous compensation threshold down from 30 minutes.

As a result of the change, compensation of 25 per cent of a single ticket or 12.5 per cent of a return ticket will be made available when there is a delay of between 15 and 29 minutes.

Mr 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.”

Compensation rates remain the same for delays 30 to 59 minutes, 60 to 119 minutes, and 120 minutes or more.

For 30 to 59-minute delays they are 50 per cent of a single ticket or 25 per cent of a return, or a complimentary single ticket.

Between an hour and 119 minutes, you can claim back 100 per cent of a single ticket cost, 50 per cent of a return, or a complimentary return ticket.

At 120 minutes of longer, you can reclaim 100 per cent of a single or return ticket, or two complimentary return tickets.

John Oates, chairman of the Mid Cheshire Rail Users Association, said: “Whilst rail users on the Mid Cheshire Line welcome this enhanced compensation, they would much prefer their trains to be on schedule.

“This allows them to get to work on time and connect with other services when travelling beyond our line."

The easiest way to claim is through Northern's website, or by post or email.

Claim forms – and assistance – are available at staffed stations, and claims must be made within 28 days. If approved, compensation is due within 20 working days.

Keep hold of your ticket and make a note of the delay and, when going through automatic ticket barriers, show your ticket to a member of staff and retain it.