An MP has welcomed the news that a train company is facing a huge fine following the train timetable chaos of last year.

Oliver Dowden, MP for Hertsmere, says the fine proves mistakes made by Govia Thameslink (GTR) do have consequences.

Commuters faced nightmare journeys after a new timetable was introduced on the Thameslink line last May - but all it led to was severe delays and cancellations.

Mr Dowden, who campaigned to ensure passengers were properly compensated, has described the disruption as "appalling".

The Office of Road & Rail (ORR) has issued Govia of a fine totalling around £5m.

Mr Dowden said: "I welcome the news that Govia Thameslink has been fined following the chaos last year. I know this cannot make up for the terrible disruption and sheer frustration we endured. However, combined with the compensation packages I secured and the resignation of Network Rail’s Chief Executive, I hope this will reassure passengers that mistakes on this scale are unacceptable and have consequences."

In its report, the ORR found that Govia Thameslink failed to provide "appropriate, accurate and timely information to passengers" following the introduction of a new timetable last May.

ORR found that GTR "took reasonable steps" in making passengers aware of the planned changes prior to the new timetable. However, following the timetable change on May 2, and in the eight weeks that followed, it is evident that GTR "failed to appropriately balance the steps it was taking to improve services" with the need for passenger information to an "unacceptable" extent and duration.

The full report can be found at https://orr.gov.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/40645/orr-investigation-report-gtr-march-2019.pdf