Northern has this week week introduced a Class 68 locomotive, to replace one of the Class 37s which operate on the Cumbrian Coast and Furness lines.
Trudy Harrison, MP for Copeland, said: "The introduction of a more reliable and modern engine is welcome, and I look forward to seeing it on the line.
County councillor Ben Shirley, who represents Dalton North, added: “It’s great to see the modernisation programme begin to roll out. Our village of Askam and Ireleth is often rudely awakened by the thunderous sound of the old locomotives hurtling through the station.
"These new, much quieter and environmentally friendly engines, demonstrate the government's and Northern's commitment to improving services for our local commuters. I look forward to seeing the remainder of the modernisation programme roll out over the coming few years.”