RAIL passengers could experience a more relaxing journey than ever this year as First TransPennine Express introduces scented seat headrest covers to services in the area.

An aromatherapy blend of citrus, orange and grapefruit fragrances will be specially blended for the rail company, which is the first in the country to use scented headrests.

Around one million of the new covers will be manufactured every year by Orvec International of Hull for use exclusively by First TransPennine Express - which operates services from Barrow and Windermere, via Lancaster, Preston and Bolton, to Manchester Airport.

Replaceable headrest covers were introduced on the company's trains last year as part of a scheme to spruce up the carriages.

The new scented headrest covers will be used in both first and standard class carriages.

Vernon Barker, managing director of TransPennine Express, said: "It's a very subtle fragrance which smells fresh and clean. It's not too strong. It's relatively long-lasting and we're confident that it will help create a favourable impression".