Heat wave causes train delays

Why it's too hot for trains

In detail

Rail passengers across Wales are facing widespread disruption because of soaring temperatures.

Around half of the services between south Wales and London have been cancelled as a result of rail companies' concern that tracks may buckle in temperatures of up to 33C.

Network Rail said that the delays to Wales were caused mainly by the new track work between Swindon and Bristol where ballast needed time to settle down.

There was a 60mph safety speed restriction westward but he eastbound line was not affected.

In north Wales services, from Holyhead are stopping at Crewe.

First Great Western said trains which start in Swansea will continue to run but with a delay because of speed restrictions on the line - imposed by Network Rail which is responsible for the railway infrastructure.

Passenger disbelief

The timetable chaos has been met with disbelief from some passengers.

Clive Williams, of the Rail Passenger Committee Wales, said: "I can understand how this beggars belief for many passengers having to come to terms with this kind of weather having a negative impact on their journeys.

1255 Cardiff to Paddington CANCELLED 1355 Cardiff to Paddington CANCELLED 1455 Cardiff to Paddington CANCELLED 1555 Cardiff to Paddington CANCELLED 1655 Cardiff to Paddington CANCELLED 1430 Paddington to Cardiff CANCELLED 1630 Paddington to Swansea CANCELLED

"I think we have to learn from the experience of some of our European sister countries on how we cope with hot weather conditions.

"There needs to be much more effective co-ordination between Network Rail and the train operating companies to deal with these circumstances

"Clearly, we need to look very closely at the maintenance regimes in place in this country to cope with hot weather."

A First Great Western spokesman said: "I hope customers understand that Network Rail have imposed these restrictions to ensure the safety of our services during this exceptionally hot weather and we are making every effort to minimise the inconvenience."

Compensation

He added that complimentary water would be provided on severely delayed-services and arrangements would be made to "double man" trains to provide extra staff services.

Also, in case of severe delays, customers could claim compensation, transport to their destination and even hotel accommodation if these fell within the terms of the company's passenger charter as displayed on the First Great Western website.

Paul Harley , of the Rail Passengers Council, said train operators could declare a "void day" in case of severe delays to allow season ticket holders an extra day's travel.

Mr Harley, a computer consultant from Newport, said: "First Great Western will be able to reclaim costs from Network Rail and pass on compensation to affected passengers.

"But in the end, and because of the subsidies, it is the taxpayer who pays the bill for this, what will be a bad week on the railways."