Passengers on the Southend to Liverpool Street line enjoy the most reliable rail service in the country - despite a recent fall in punctuality.

The number of trains running on time on the Great Eastern Line has fallen slightly to 93.1 per cent in May to July this year compared with the same period last year, official figures reveal.

However, more trains arrive on time during rush hour periods, according to a report by the Strategic Rail Authority. The figure has now risen one per cent to 93.4 per cent.

A Great Eastern spokesman said: "These are the official audited figures from the national rail authority. We are working hard to maintain this level of performance and are not complacent."

The only service with a better record of punctuality is a tiny island line.

Meanwhile, punctuality on the c2c line, from Southend to Fenchurch Street, has remained static at 90 per cent. The operator is in the top six of the country's 25 train operators for performance.

A statement issued by c2c said: "Despite the operational difficulties we have encountered over the last 18 months, it is encouraging to see we are one of the best train operators in the country.

"We have kept punctuality levels at 90 per cent which shows the hard work, enthusiasm and professionalism of our staff in very trying circumstances."

The statement added: "Over the next two years our investment of almost £500 million in new trains, station improvements and high-tech innovations will be put into place to completely transform the c2c route and journey experience.

"We are confident of becoming one of the best railways in the country and our performance will certainly be climbing well above 90 per cent."

However, Peter Slattery, chairman of the Southend Railway Travellers' Association, said the c2c figures were "far from ideal".

He said: "We can't say we're pleased with the service offered by c2c at the moment, but we hope when more of the new trains come on line there will be fewer delays. We're not surprised with the figures, but I'm glad to see the service hasn't deteriorated."

Just two of the 25 rail operators measured in the country improved their punctuality figures compared with last year.

By Chris Weeks

Reporter's e-mail: chris.weeks@notes.newsquest.co.uk

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