Passengers travelling by South Western Railway this Saturday 17th November face major delays and disruption as staff members plan to go on strike. The rail network will operate a reduced service, with many trains being replaced by a bus service.

Affected lines include London journeys which terminate at Waterloo and Richmond stations but changes to all timetables are yet to be finalised. As is stands bus replacement services will run, instead of trains, between Exeter St Davids to Yeovil Junction, Salisbury via Yeovil Pen Mill, Guildford to Hinchley Wood and Leatherhead, Hampton Court to Surbiton and Virginia Water to Weybridge. Before heading to the station this weekend be sure to check the South Western Railway website.

Engineering work on the lines will also affect journeys and add to the disruption.

It is believed a further 24-hour walk out will take place on Saturday 24th November 2018. The strike has been called by members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union over a dispute about guard guarantee on trains. Staff are concerned the removal of guards will have a negative impact on the rail service as they are vital in ensuring passenger safety and assisting train drivers and station staff in the events of an emergency or when disabled passengers wish to board.

Those who have tickets booked with South Western Railway may use their tickets on the following rail services (restrictions apply so check carefully before travelling): GWR, CrossCountry, Southern Rail, and Transport for London.

Passengers who are delayed for 15 minutes or longer will be entitled to compensation, and those who decide not to travel following a cancellation or delay may be eligible for a full refund. For more information on train strikes and compensation, click here.