Rail firm to compensate commuters

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Commuters whose journeys into London were disrupted by staff shortages and bad weather have been offered up to two weeks of free travel in compensation.

First Capital Connect and Thameslink services from the South and East were disrupted for 11 weeks from November.

The firm has offered annual and monthly ticket holders discounts of 5% and 50% respectively on their next tickets, or two weeks of free travel.

A spokeswoman for London TravelWatch welcomed the compensation package.

Passengers who bought at least four weekly tickets during the disruption period will be able to claim for five days of free travel.

'Extreme disruption'

Ten days of free travel will be offered to those who bought at least eight weekly tickets.

First Capital Connect said it offered the compensation in recognition of the "extreme disruption" caused.

Problems began when members of train drivers' union Aslef chose not to work overtime, disrupting the Thameslink route between Bedford and Brighton.

The important thing is that passengers get a train service they can actually use Jo de Bank, London TravelWatch

Many trains subsequently went out of service when snow and ice caused power problems.

The operator agreed a pay deal with the union earlier this month.

Jo de Bank, from passenger group London TravelWatch, said the compensation was "over and above" what First Capital Connect was obliged to offer.

"We would urge every customer to make sure they claim for this compensation," she said.

"Disruption lasted a long time and it could have been avoided.

"The important thing is that passengers get a train service they can actually use."

Discounts will be available when buying tickets at First Capital Connect stations or online on the company's website.

They are in addition to standard compensation for all national rail customers whose journeys are delayed by 30 minutes or more.