South Western Railway urges passengers not to travel due to disruption on trains

South Western Railway in Berkshire is urging passengers not to use its trains today (Monday, February 21) - as Storm Franklin continues to cause disruption.

South Western Railway, which runs train services to Reading, Wokingham, Bracknell, Winnersh, Windsor, Earley, Ascot and other stations in the county, said strong winds were set to continue to cause issues on railway services.

The operator advised people it 'cannot guarantee to get them to their destination'.

Christian Neill, Customer Experience Director for South Western Railway, said: “We understand Monday marks the first day back from half term for many and we are sorry for the continuing disruption these storms are causing.

"It has been an incredibly challenging few days and our teams have been working tirelessly to clear the tracks to safely run as many trains as possible.

"With more severe weather expected on Monday, we are asking customers not to attempt to travel as we cannot guarantee to get them to their destination."

Mark Killick, Route Director for Network Rail said: “Storm Franklin is set to cause further disruption on our route so we’re asking our customers not to travel on Monday.

"With strong winds approaching from a different direction, it’s likely that trees weakened by Storm Eunice will be forced down and could block lines.

"The safety of our customers and our staff, who have worked around the clock since Friday to remove debris and repair damaged infrastructure, is our number one priority. I’d like to thank our customers for their patience over the last three days.”

A Met Office yellow weather warning is in force for Berkshire until 1pm.

It states: "Further periods of very strong winds on Sunday and Monday, with possible disruption.