WESSEX Trains have welcomed news from the Strategic Rail Authority that it is the most punctual train operator in the South West.

Figures out this week show that between July and September, Wessex Trains achieved an overall performance figure of 85.2 per cent, which was up from 82.9 per cent in the same period last year.

South West Trains -- the region's largest operator -- also saw an increase in punctuality from 75.8 per cent to 80.3 per cent across its daily services.

Alan Wilson, Wessex Trains managing director, said: "While I am pleased we have been able to deliver this performance, I acknowledge we still have further progress to make to achieve the level of service our passengers expect and deserve.

"Our task is to now build on this and many measures are already in place."

The punctuality figures were for July to September prior to the introduction of South West Trains' new timetable which was released on December 12.