PASSENGERS have welcomed news that staff in Worcester train stations will be among the first in the country to use hi-tech devices to provide them with up-to-date information.

The pocket-sized machines, equipped with the latest wireless technology, will be used by staff at Foregate Street and Shrub Hill stations to update passengers with arrival and departure times, platform numbers and general timetable information.

Passenger Barbara Tuffin, who is retired and lives in Rose Hill, off London Road, was enthusiastic about the changes.

"I think it will help, especially in adverse weather conditions and when there are delays," she said.

"I am sure it will be a help as staff will be able to tell you the information you need to know straight away."

The location of hundreds of trains will be monitored using track-side equipment - this information is then fed, via satellite, to the computers.

Central Trains director of network services Tony Brown said the company's £220,000 investment would be great news for passengers.

"Although running information is available from most booking office computers, the handheld computers will give passengers information where they need it most - on the platform," he said.

Secretary Jill Palmer, from Malvern, praised the move.

"Hopefully there will be up-to-date and accurate information," said the 43-year-old.

"If you're going on a long journey and you have connections to make, delays are a real problem and I think this will help deal with that."

Martin Purser, of London Road in the city centre also welcomed the news.

"It sounds like a good idea, especially when there are so many delays, said the 38-year-old carer.

"It would be nice to know what's going on.

"I think it will help the problem, but not solve it."

Devices have also been issued to staff at stations in Nottingham, Solihull and Walsall.