RAIL users of the Airedale line between Skipton and Leeds and Bradford will have a new operator next year.

The current franchise holder, Arriva Trains, has been ruled out of the race for the new franchise - but the decision has dismayed some rail commuters who have been impressed by Arriva's dramatic improvement in performance in the last two years.

In the winter of 2000-2001, Arriva was pilloried for its poor time keeping and crowded trains. A conductors' strike did not help.

However, since then the company has made many improvements, including improving the punctuality and cleanliness of the trains. Its performance was so good that it won the prestigious title of Best Passenger Transport Operator 2003 at the annual Institute of Logistics and Transport Awards this month.

The award was in recognition of Arriva's efforts to turn around its business and improve performance, safety and customer service.

The latest National Rail Trends report by the Strategic Rail Authority showed it was the highest performing train operator in the North of England in terms of punctuality and reliability.

It is something of a stark contrast to the service offered to many commuters in other parts of the country who face delays and cancellations on a regular basis.

Tim Calow, chairman of Aire Valley Rail Users' Group, commented in their December newsletter how there are, "no cancellations, a seat on every train" and the worst he had suffered is one delay of ten minutes.

He added: "The standard of service has improved enormously over the last two years since the completion of the modernisation at Leeds station. Arriva have made enormous strides in listening to us and in running the train service on a daily basis."

Chief executive of Arriva plc Bob Davies said: "We note the decision by the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA) concerning the new Northern Rail franchise. Whilst disappointed with the outcome, we will work closely with the SRA and the company selected to operate the franchise to ensure a smooth transition."

The two contenders left are First Group plc and Serco Rail/Ned Railways.

Nicola Shaw, SRA's managing director (operations), said: "The Northern Rail franchise will be one of the first of a new generation of customer-focused operations, designed to deliver for passengers. We have selected two strong contenders and the competition will continue to be robust."

First Group Chief Executive, Moir Lockhead, said: "We will be working hard to provide a bid which gives improved services for passengers across the region and excellent value for money for the taxpayer."

The Strategic Rail Authority have said that the winner of the franchise will be announced in spring 2004 and take over the service from Arriva Trains Northern in the autumn.