'Some were really suffering' - Passenger anger as train repairs hit London-bound services from East Sussex town

The operator said more trains than usual needed repairs on Tuesday morning (November 3), leaving fewer carriages available and prompting warnings that passengers might have to wait for another service.

Southern later confirmed the disruption had ended, saying: “Disruption caused by this issue has now ended and there should be no further delays to Uckfield – London Bridge services.”

One passenger, posting on X under the handle @bag_1975, described the morning journey from Ashurst as ‘outrageous’.

“Standing for over an hour from Ashurst. Many elderly people,” the passenger wrote.

“You should compensate people when trains are short formed. Some were really suffering.”

Responding to the complaint, Southern said: “We apologise for the discomfort caused this morning.”

The operator also directed the passenger to its website to make a formal complaint.

Southern had initially warned passengers at 7.45am that trains were running with reduced carriages between Uckfield and London Bridge.

Explaining the shortage, it said: “This is due to more trains than usual needing repairs, meaning that fewer carriages are available for use.”

During the disruption, passengers travelling from stations between Uckfield and Oxted were advised to consider alternative services from Haywards Heath into London.

Existing tickets were accepted at no extra cost on Southern services between Haywards Heath and London Victoria, Thameslink services between Haywards Heath and London Bridge, and Southeastern services between Tunbridge Wells and London via Tonbridge.

Ticket acceptance was also arranged on London Underground services between London terminals.

Passengers using alternative routes were advised to allow at least 30 extra minutes to reach their destination.

To make a claim for compensation, visit: https://www.southernrailway.com/help-and-support/delay-repay-compensation