Disgruntled rail users are in disbelief that train operator Southeastern has announced it is one of the most reliable rail companies in the country.

Our comments section has been bombarded with rail users who feel trains are often late and poor value for money.

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

That puts Southeastern eighth among the 21 train operators in the UK.

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

But Adam from Dartford said: “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?”

Gemma from Sittingbourne said: “Mr Jarrett obviously wasn't on the 18.04 from Victoria last Thursday which was over two hours late. I have just been informed that as an annual season ticket holder I receive no compensation, however if I had a daily ticket I would receive a full refund. Does this seem fair given the price rise of over ten per cent?”

There were also questions raised about how Southeastern’s figures were compiled.

James Munro from Paddock Wood said: “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.”

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