Virgin Trains announces compensation changes as passengers seek refunds for yesterday's delays

Delayed Virgin Trains passengers will be offered compensation in the form of a cheque as the default option rather than travel vouchers, it has announced.

It comes a day after severe disruption caused havoc for commuters using train services which included the section of train line between Birmingham and Coventry yesterday.

Thousands of journeys were affected until late into the evening, including routes to Edinburgh, North Wales, Manchester, London and Southampton.

The policy, which will apply on the east and west coast routes, is the latestattempt by the company to improve its response to disrupted journeys.

In October the it launched a system whereby west coast travellers who buyAdvance tickets through its website receive money directly on to their payment cards if they are entitled to compensation.

New arrangements came into effect in July last year meaning all rail passengers can request to receive their compensation in cash.

• If you were affected by yesterday's delays, you could be entitled to compensation. Please check your train operator's website for information on how to apply for a full or partial refund.