PASSENGERS have voted Chiltern Railways the best train operating company in London and the South East.

The Strategic Rail Authority's Spring 2001 National Passenger Study, which is carried out twice-yearly, put them in the lead for the fourth year running.

In the study, Chiltern Railways scored the highest marks in all 12 categories, including punctuality, reliability, comfort and value for money.

Overall, 89 per cent of passengers surveyed were satisfied or very satisfied with their journey.

In half of the categories surveyed in the National Passenger Study, Chiltern Railways scored at least 20 per cent better than the average for London and South East train companies.

Steve Murphy, Chiltern Railways general manager said: "Our commitment and effort to build a world class railway for our passengers is starting to pay off.

"We have still got a long way to go, but these results are a very encouraging endorsement of our policy of providing a comfortable service and investing in safety, punctuality and reliability. We are very proud that our passengers have recognised our commitment to quality."

Chiltern Railways offers passenger rail services between London Marylebone Station, Birmingham Snow Hill and Aylesbury via High Wycombe and Amersham.