THURROCK MP Jen Craft has responded to further passenger disruption on the borough's c2c line this morning (Wednesday, 4 November) by calling for a meeting with rail bosses.

She is co-ordinating a response from MPs representing aggrieved passengers.

A signalling failure on the line between Stanford-le-Hope and Grays brought passenger trains to a halt, leaving commuters stranded at Stanford-le-Hope, East Tilbury, Tilbury and Grays – while at the same time Purfleet station is closed because of a recent freight train derailment.

Mrs Craft says incidents such as happened today are now occurring far too regularly and she and other MPs want a meeting with c2c Managing director Rob Mullen and Ellie Borrows, managing director of Network Rail Eastern Region.

In a letter to the duo she says: "We write as Members of Parliament representing constituencies served by the c2c route regarding the ongoing and repeated disruption affecting our constituents.

"While recent events, such as the derailment near Barking, have exacerbated the situation, passengers have faced repeated and prolonged periods of disruption over recent months.

"Constituents continue to contact us with reports of overcrowded trains, persistent cancellations, lengthy delays, inadequate alternative transport arrangements, and significant additional costs incurred travelling to work, school, healthcare appointments and other essential commitments.

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"These experiences are simply unacceptable.

"For many communities along the route, c2c is not a transport preference but an essential lifeline. Passengers deserve a clear explanation of why disruption continues on this scale, what steps are being taken to improve resilience across the line, and when they can expect a reliable service to be restored."

MPs including Margaret Mullane, James Asser and Bayo Alaba have joined Mrs Craft in calling for the meeting as soon as possible.