The Government has announced plans to repay tens of thousands of Southern Rail passengers after they suffered problems on the network.

Following long delays, cancellations and disruption due to track failures, engineering works and general poor performance and strikes by the RMT union- it has said passengers can claim the equivalent of up to a month's fares back.

They put the figure of those affected around 84,000.

This is a one-off payment and is in addition to the 'Delay Repay 15' scheme, which will begin next Sunday (December 11).

Paul Maynard, rail minister, said: "Getting Southern rail services back on track is a priority for the government and I know that what passengers want most is a reliable service.

"But when things do go wrong it is right that we compensate people who have not had the service that they deserve. This is a gesture in recognition of the problems people have faced.

"We’re working hard to get Network Rail and Southern to improve this network and get this railway working the way people expect" - Paul Maynard

"We are investing record amounts in improving our railways and we need everyone in the rail industry, including the unions, to work together to deliver for passengers.

"In addition from next week (11 December 2016) passengers will be able to claim compensation if their train is more than 15 minutes late.

"This is a major improvement for passengers."

, the parent company of Southern, will be contacting those who have purchased eligible tickets.

Compensation can be transferred directly to a bank account or claimed as vouchers.

The announcement comes the day after RMT announced it is cancelling a planned walkout from December 23, but has arranged other industrial action.