National rail strike to bring ‘severe disruption’ to South London

Saturday’s national rail strike will see many train services delayed or cancelled across South London.

Trains operating on Network Rail lines will not run on a day of industrial action by the RMT union.

The union said railway workers will walkout across the country in a dispute over jobs, pay and working conditions.

Train operators Southeastern, Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) and South Western Railway have all warned customers not to travel unless “absolutely necessary”.

GTR has said pre-planned engineering work will also stop trains running between Balham and West Croydon via Crystal Palace.

Around 20 per cent of trains are expected to run with crowding expected, particularly on first and last trains.

The disruption could last into Sunday, with rail companies warning customers to check their travel routes.

Angie Doll, chief operating officer at GTR, said: “It is with much regret that we have to advise our passengers to travel only if absolutely necessary on Saturday 8 October.

“Strike action means train services across the country will be significantly limited, with many routes not running at all.

“Services will start much later in the morning. We expect our first trains to be very busy, so, if you can, please travel later in the day. Trains will also finish as early as 4.30pm, so plan ahead if you absolutely have to travel.

“We urge the unions to work with the industry and come to a resolution.”

Pictured top: A South Western Railway train (Picture: South Western Railway)