It's not just passengers. Train operating companies are increasingly frustrated with Railtrack's recovery programme for the rail network. Sources at the Association of Train Operating Companies accused Railtrack of adopting a "high-handed" attitude and of failing to consult with the other companies.

The row follows Railtrack's statement that 80 per cent of the network should be operating normally by the end of the month and the rest by Easter. However, bad weather could delay repairs and the company said it could give no guarantees.