Trains have been delayed for more than a week mainly due to the hot weather, the Network Rail has said.

Speed restrictions have been in place between Watford Junction and St Albans Abbey since last Tuesday (June 8), causing disruptions to trains between these stations.

This means that trains can be delayed up to 25 minutes or replaced with road transport as the infrastructure is managed.

Now the Network Rail has revealed that the speed restrictions were “necessary” due to a combination of the hot weather and the condition of the track foundation stone.

James Dean, Network Rail’s West Coast South route director, said: “We’re sorry to passengers facing longer journey times on the Abbey line between Watford Junction and St Albans because of necessary speed restrictions.

“A combination of the hot weather and condition of the track foundation stone means trains must run more slowly for safety reasons. I’d urge Abbey line passengers to check National Rail Enquiries for revised train times while we work as fast as we can to get the line back up to speed.”

Restrictions are expected to last until at least the end of Saturday (June 19).

Watford Junction also had further disruption on Tuesday (June 15) after a person was hit by a train at Cheddington station in Buckinghamshire.

Anyone wishing to use the London Northwestern Railway service during this time is advised to check the National Rail journey planner before travelling.

Commuters affected by the restrictions may also be entitled to compensation if they experience a delay in completing their journey. To do so visit here.