PASSENGERS on trains on the Tarka Line, which links Exeter and Barnstaple, will be able to enjoy a smoother ride thanks to further improvements to be carried out to the track.

Next month Network Rail will carry out track renewal improvements for two weeks at Lapford and also between Eggesford and the Portsmouth Arms.

The company also plans further track improvements between Crediton and Yeoford and in the Umberleigh and Chapleton areas next March.

It says the improvements will pave the way for faster journey times, adding that the programme of improvements brings the total spend on the line to £9.3m to date in the current financial year (April 2012 to March 2013).

Network Rail's western route managing director Patrick Hallgate said: "This is the biggest spend on the Tarka Line in more than 100 years and is certainly the largest single investment in the line since approximately £4.6m (today's prices) was spent on re-modelling the junction and replacing the bridges at Cowley Bridge, Exeter in 1965."

Julian Crow, regional manager, West of England for train operator First Great Western, said: "The Tarka Line is thriving with more passengers than ever and we very much welcome this huge investment in the line's future, leading to smoother and faster journeys for our customers.

"Since the beginning of the franchise in 2006 First Great Western, working with Devon County Council, has provided an additional nine services a week to the line.

"We will do our best to make journeys as easy as possible whilst the work is carried out and look forward to the improvements when it is completed."