MP calls for 'armoured trains'

The railway lines at Dawlish run along the town's seafront

A south Devon MP has called for armoured trains to be introduced along a railway line which is hindered by "high water and falling cliffs".

Conservative MP for Totnes, Anthony Steen, also asked the government for more money to by-pass the area between Dawlish Warren and Teignmouth.

The scenic route runs along the sea and through cliffs via short tunnels.

Laughing, Junior Transport Minister Tom Harris replied there were no plans for armoured trains "at the moment".

Mr Steen raised his concerns on the conditions on the route during Commons Question Time on Tuesday.

He said: "In spite of £9 million being spent by Network Rail and five full-time members of staff being on site, trains are constantly being stopped by high water and falling cliffs."

Mr Harris said the performance measure of South West Trains at 90.1% was higher than the national average of 87.6% and that it was an "extremely efficient" service.