A new train of thought in rail excuses

Train operators claim the inflation-busting fare increases announced this week are justified because services are improving.

And it's true. Just in time for the fare rise, a new excuse for delays has been introduced - and it's the best yet.

Forget the wrong sort of snow. Forget leaves on the line.

For sheer toothgrinding brilliance, the new, improved excuse is much better than them. It comes courtesy of Southeastern, as befits a company imposing some of the biggest fare increases on passengers. It isn't official yet, but it is so good that it's bound to catch on.