Revellers face train disruption

Rail passengers in the West Midlands hoping to travel over the festive season face further disruption after it was announced the West Coast Main Line will be closed for longer than expected.

Bosses at Network Rail had originally hoped the route would be closed only between December 27 and New Year's Eve but it will not now be opened until January 1.

The delay could cause disruption for thousands of people travelling to New Year parties or returning home after the Christmas break. A Network Rail spokesman said they were "extremely sorry for the short notice" on the work, which is part of an £8 billion upgrade of the line.

Any services that would have passed through Rugby will be affected by the work. These are mostly Virgin Train's services, but it also affects some London Midland and First ScotRail Sleeper services. Alternative services will be provided either by other train operating companies or replacement coaches.

There will also be no London Midland trains on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, and Saturday services will operate on other days over the period. Meanwhile passengers using Arriva CrossCountry services are being urged to book ahead for any journeys between December 22 and January 1.