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The Association of Train Operating Companies today welcomed the news that for the first time no train operator received the lowest grading as measured by the Strategic Rail Authority's performance bulletin.
ATOC Director General, George Muir, said: "The news that three passenger train companies moved up a grade in the period from 17 October 1999 to 8 January 2000, and no train operator fell into the bottom (E) grading demonstrates how hard train companies worked to improve performance. This was achieved over what is traditionally the most difficult time of the year due to weather conditions and their effects on train operations.
"Overall, train operators have delivered on their commitment to improve on performance during this quarter compared to the same period last year. Reliability improved on well over half the routes and performance generally is on an improving trend."
George Muir also welcomed the fact that train punctuality, as measured by the passengers' charter, is today at its highest level for nearly 18 months, and has shown consistent improvement since December. ENDS
