This morning (Friday 6 December), a nationwide fault with the GSMR system affected communication between train drivers and signallers, leading to nation-wide disruption during the morning commute.
The fault meant that trains were unable to register onto their route for the start of service and deregister to end their service. Drivers were able to use a back up system whilst the issue was ongoing.
The disruption mainly impacted high-frequency services in the southeast, particularly those operated by Govia Thameslink Railway, including Thameslink, Southern, Great Northern, and Gatwick Express. Other affected services included South Western Railway, Southeastern, and sections of the Elizabeth line running west of London.
National Rail also reported that Northern Rail services were heavily affected.
Engineers have now rectified the fault and services are returning to normal, though there is residual disruption while timetables are restored. Passengers are advised to expect short-notice cancellations and changes to schedules due to the ripple effect on timetables.
Customers can check their journey using the National Rail Enquiries Journey Planner.
Customers may be entitled to compensation if they experience a delay in completing their journey.
Image credit: Istockphoto.com/georgeclerk
