Network Rail has appointed a new route director for the north and east.

Jason Hamilton is set to take over from Matt Rice as the route director on Network Rail's North & East route.

Mr Rice is departing the organisation after four and a half years to join the train operator Northern.

Mr Hamilton is in his 16th year at Network Rail and previously bore the title of route programme director (works delivery) as part of the East Coast route's executive team.

As route director, Mr Hamilton will hold overall responsibility for the day-to-day running of the network throughout Yorkshire and the North East.

Noteworthy infrastructure projects such as Network Rail's involvement in the Northumberland Line fall under his supervision.

Mr Hamilton said: "I am thrilled to have been appointed as the new route director on Network Rail’s North & East route.

"This part of the network hosts major arterial routes across the north of England, connecting major towns and cities which are so crucial to our passengers.

"It will also see transformational infrastructure investment over the coming years and plays a major role in the north of England economy."

Mr Hamilton is set to begin in his new post in April 2024.