Tens of thousands of passengers have been stranded or delayed due to Eurostar train breakdowns over the recent wintery weekend. Siz broken down Eurostar trains have resulted in as many as 55,000 travellers experiencing disruption.

Eurostar have reported that although their trains have been reliable for over 15 years the abnormally acute weather conditions in northern France have caused the problems that have been experienced. Eurostar have identified the flaw that has caused their trains to fail and they are taking steps to fix the issue.

It is reported that as many as 2000 passengers were trapped in the Channel tunnel on broken down trains. Some are reported to have spent as much as 16 hours confined in their trains below the English Channel. Many had no food, no water and no information from the train operators telling them what was happening. Some travellers abandoned their stranded trains and attempted to walk through the cold, dark tunnel which extends for 24 miles beneath the channel.

Although Eurostar have issued apologies and promised to pay refunds and compensation to travelers affected by the debacle many passengers are very unhappy with the way the situation has been managed. Some passengers are reported to have suffered from panic attacks and others have experienced the effects of claustrophobia. Many have complained about the lack of information, food, water and support.

On Saturday as many as 31,000 ticket holders were forced to change their travel plans and on Sunday all services were cancelled resulting in a further 27,000 people being stranded.

Freezing weather conditions have continued to disrupt travel in all parts of the British Isles with flight cancellations from many airports. As weather forecasters warn of further heavy snow in many parts of the UK further travel disruption is expected as Christmas approaches. The Scottish Police have advised travelers to stay at home unless their journey is absolutely essential.

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