This record 90 per cent figure for train punctuality is measured by all the trains running on every day of the week over the course of the year.

At the same time, figures released have also shown that the number of train delay minutes to services on the network caused by Southern are at the lowest ever levels.

Added together these two huge achievements have point to the best punctuality figures since the start of the franchise.

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Chris Burchell, Southern's managing director said: "This record-breaking performance can only mean further improved services for our passengers.

"Every member of Southern staff has worked extremely hard to focus on delivering a safe, reliable and very punctual railway."

He added: "Despite these excellent results, we still have some way to go to fulfil our ambition of making this a railway known for consistently delivering 100 per cent punctuality."

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