Later weekend Tubes wanted by 73%

The Tube would open an hour later on Saturdays and Sundays

Some 73% of Londoners support plans for later running weekend Tube services.

Transport for London (TfL) published the results of a two-month consultation in which over 54,419 people responded.

About 22% are against the proposal, which could see the last train leave central London at 1.30am on Fridays and Saturdays, instead of 12.30am.

This would mean trains starting an hour later on Saturdays and Sundays, which could affect early morning workers. A decision will be taken at a later date.

Heathrow airport and airline managers warn that proposals for the Tube to run later could have a negative impact on the airport with staff struggling to get in for early shifts.

There has been greater participation in this consultation than any other undertaken by London Underground London Underground's Richard Parry

London Underground's Richard Parry said it will submit a recommendation to the mayor before a final decision is made.

"There has been greater participation in this consultation than any other undertaken by London Underground," he added.

"The majority of respondents were in favour of the Tube running later at weekends, however we're conscious there is a sizeable minority who would face longer journey times on Saturday and Sunday mornings."

The key reasons given by the respondents for supporting the proposal are that the Tube is perceived to be more convenient, cheaper and safer than alternatives.

The consultation also found 41% of respondents currently use the Underground before 7am on Saturday or 8.30am on Sunday.