Train operator introduces autumn timetable

Southeastern said that some trains would leave a few minutes earlier between 13 October and 14 December

A railway operator serving Kent, East Sussex and Greater London has introduced its autumn timetable to try to prevent delays from leaves on the line.

Southeastern said that between 13 October and 14 December, some trains will leave a few minutes earlier.

Network Rail said that in areas with very heavy leaf-fall train journeys would take longer to allow extra time for train drivers to drive more cautiously.

It explained that when wet leaves fall on the rails they are crushed to a slippery pulp so trains need more time to safely accelerate and brake.

Some stations could be particularly affected due to the introduction of the short term timetable.

These are Eden Park, Falconwood, Lower Sydenham, New Beckenham, Welling and West Wickham.

Passengers are being told to check the Southeastern or National Rail online journey planner before setting off.

Network Rail said leaves could also cause delays by forming a barrier between the train wheels and the electrical parts of the track that help to tell exactly where trains are.

This means that trains have to be held at red signals so a safe distance between services can be maintained.

A new timetable across the railway industry will start on 15 December.