ANGER, abuse and threats against rail staff from passengers over chaotic services has become so bad that rail union RMT has called for safety regulators and transport police to intervene.

Rail operator Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) introduced a new timetable on Monday May 21 which has led to days of cancellations and delays.

RMT called for action by GTR, pointing out that front-line staff bore the brunt of passenger frustration, without support from company bosses.

General secretary Mick Cash said: “We want action from the Office of Road and Rail (ORR) to enforce safe working conditions for RMT members as the situation in clearly worsening and the level of abuse is escalating.”

An ORR spokesman responded: “Front-line railway staff provide an excellent service, sometimes in very difficult circumstances. We are aware of the current situation and are monitoring it very closely.”