Network Rail has been hit with a record £14m fine by the rail regulator for its failure to complete engineering works on time over the Christmas and new year period.

The overrun at Rugby meant the year started with travel chaos for thousands of commuters and business travellers after the West Coast Main Line was crippled for four days.

But the company has also warned that it risks failing to complete the works by this December and passengers will now face disruption on 13 weekends throughout the summer, as well as Easter and Bank Holidays, as it attempts to get back on course.

Network Rail admitted the cause of the delay over Christmas and new year was due to specialist workmen failing to arrive for work.