Commuters have reacted angrily to statistics which place train operator Southeastern as one of the most reliable rail companies in the country.

According to the figures from the Department for Transport 91.2 per cent of mainline services run by Southeastern arrive on time.

But the revelation has caused a storm with disgruntled rail-users who feel their trains are often late and poor value for money.

While the performance figures are unlikely to come as any consolation to Dartford commuters facing a cut in rail services to accommodate the high-speed line through Kent, which will not pass through many Dartford stations.

According to the national figures Southeastern is ranked eighth among the 21 UK train operators.

Southeastern spokesman Nigel Jarrett said it was great news for passengers, despite being hit by some of the biggest price hikes in the country.

But the Messenger has been bombarded with comments on its website from commuters critical of the operator's claim.

Adam, from Dartford, wrote: "If Southeastern are doing well compared to other companies, I hate to think what the others are like. As for value for money, what planet are they on?"

Last week the Messenger revealed plans by Southeastern to cut the number of peak time trains on some routes in and out of the capital to make way for the 'Javelin' service.

At Dartford peak services to London Bridge are to be cut from 35 trains to 33, while reductions are also proposed to services into Charing Cross, and some running from stations at Stone and Swanscombe.

While in Greenhithe, where travellers were hit with a January fare increase of almost 11 per cent, trains going to London Bridge could be cut from 12 to 10 to make way for high-speed trains. Spokesman Mr Jarrett added: "We understand that fare increases are never welcome but we have to try and run as efficient and good a service as we can. We believe this shows value for money is being achieved through that revenue."

But many commuters disagree. In a message to the Messenger's website, in which he described the increase as "unjustified" Robert, from Rochester, wrote: "Southeastern trains also have a habit of cancelling the train between Higham and London when it reaches Dartford if it is running late."

While James Munro, from Paddock Wood, added: "What these statistics don't reveal is the amount of cancellations Southeastern make in order to ensure another journey runs on time. If a service is significantly delayed coming out of London, Southeastern will cancel it in order to allow the train to return back to London so that its next scheduled departure is met.

"This occurs on a regular basis, leaving hundreds of commuters stranded. It still is an awful service they provide."