Part of the new railway line is due to open in December, but no actual date has been announced.

The way firms deal with fare evasion will be examined amid concern about how passengers are treated.

Campaigners call for step-free access at stations between Newcastle and Carlisle.

The initiative is designed to support and protect vulnerable people, the train operator has said.

Northern Trains has a "breach notice" from the government, which also owns the company.

Surveys found defects in brickwork, timber and the chimneys at the 1951-built station.

The route connects Beadnell, Seahouses and Belford to Chathill railway station.

Politicians and campaigners fear reduced services in Northumberland, Durham and Cumbria.