Poetry in motion...words of wisdom for travellers

Above the usual hubbub of train engines and commuter chatter, customers bound for the Harrogate International Festival this summer will be treated to the thoughts of some of our greatest writers on travel.

Northern Rail passengers can now expect to hear the inspirational quotes of Mark Twain, Tolkien and D H Lawrence – to name but a few – as they journey from Leeds and wider Yorkshire areas to Harrogate.

To help celebrate the festival of writing, reading, poetry, film, comedy and music, Northern Rail conductors will broadcast 50 of the most thought-provoking travel quotes of all time over the loudspeaker.

Employee Karen Bell, of Wheldrake, York, said: "What we hope is that by broadcasting uplifting and thought-provoking quotes we will surprise passengers and give them something to think about during their journey."