Southern passenger give rail operator a boost

This score placed the company above both the London and South East sector and national averages for passenger satisfaction.

Southern's managing director Chris Burchell said: "We are pleased that we have been able to maintain the support of our passengers.

"Many of the areas where we have put in the hard work to make improvements across the network are being recognised. We are still taking the opportunity to make improvements and recognise that there is always more that we can do.

"However, providing a safe, punctual and reliable service continues to be a constant priority and we remain determined to deliver a service focussed firmly on our passengers."

The latest survey shows a 4% increase in passenger satisfaction with Southern's station security, moving from 56% to 60%. The company says substantial investment in security has included the strategic installation of modern CCTV cameras, passenger help points and the attainment of Secure Station status (awarded by the Department for Transport and the British Transport Police) for over 100 Southern stations in just two years.

The survey shows a 15% in passenger satisfaction with the information provided on board Southern's trains- up from 59% to 74%. The attitude of Southern staff on its trains is also on an upward trend, with the company's survey score moving from 43% to 52%.

One of the key improvements in the survey is the continued improvement in passenger satisfaction with the company's ticket buying facilities (62% to 65%). The company says its investment to upgrade and modernise these facilities is being recognised by passengers.