TRAINS boss Richard Bowker chose York to unveil his vision for a "new" railway.

Giving the main speech at the National Railway Museum's annual dinner, Mr Bowker said the rail industry could only flourish if "professionals work together to deliver something that their customers want".

Stressing the need for "professionalisation", Mr Bowker listed seven key points that would help revitalise the industry.

These included better performance, a vastly improved journey experience, welcoming stations and a railway that was reliable and accountable.

Mr Bowker said: "We are getting on with the business of creating a railway delivered by viable and accountable operators who are passionate about their customers.

"This is not the SRA's vision alone. This is a vision to which we can all subscribe. It is a vision of Britain's Railway, properly delivered."

Mr Bowker also praised the NRM's role in stimulating debate about key issues facing the industry. He said the museum "inspires and engages the mind".

Today, Mr Bowker was barracked by angry trains staff when he went to a York conference.

Transport Salaried Staffs' Association members, employed by Arriva Trains Northern (ATN), confronted the SRA chief as he attended the conference at the NRM.

Members claim the SRA has been blocking a settlement to the long running dispute with ATN over pay and conditions.

Updated: 12:02 Friday, November 22, 2002