THE operator which runs Kent's trains is to lose its franchise after failing to improve its performance.

The Strategic Rail Authority said Connex's franchise to run services in Kent and Sussex would cease at the end of the year.

It is the first time such a move has been taken against a train operating company.

Connex was bailed out with £56 million of public money last year and the SRA said it had no confidence in its management.

An interim company will run the services until a replacement is found.

Connex said today that while acknowledging the SRA decision, it strongly disagreed with the reasons behind it and was considering all options.

Chief executive Olivier Brousse said: "I am shocked by the SRA's decision, most particularly for our staff who worked tirelessly to run this railway as best as they could. I assure our passengers that we will work very hard, until the last minute, to run the best service we can.

"There is no doubt that our railway needs a dramatic shake-up and more funds. Despite the SRA's decision, I remain convinced that Connex could have been part of the solution for the future of the Kent railway."

Sittingbourne and Sheppey MP Derek Wyatt, a regular commuter, said he was not surprised Connex had had its franchise terminated.

But he stressed: "The changes are likely to take place by the end of December which is always the worst time of year for the railways.

"Commuters on the Sheppey branch line as well as in the Sittingbourne area have suffered increasng hell over the past four years due to overcrowded and late trains.

"They recognise me when I'm on the train to London and air their grievances. I only hope Connex does not now just run the system into the ground."