The latest prediction on the extent of the disruption comes in a letter to all season ticket holders.

The company’s commercial director , Mark Powels, says Railtrack estimates that the line north of Brookmans Park and south of Hatfield is likely to be operational again around November 13, however he warns that speed restrictions will continue.

Mr Powles says in a letter reproduced on this site, that WAGN has around 50 speed restrictions imposed on it by Railtrack as the company checks and replaces suspect rails on the network following the Hatfield derailment in October.

And the length of the delay in services is not the only bad news for commuters.

WAGN say that during this period, because it has been forced to implement an emergency timetable, it will have to run services 25% below its normal schedule.

Mr Powles, in his letter to regular commuter, says that, where possible, they will be, “lengthening trains to offer a similar amount of seating”, and will try to, “minimize the potential for overcrowding”.

WAGN says a timetable will be available once the details have been agreed although this too could be subject to further change should Railtrack impose further restrictions.

The company says it is now in the process of reviewing its existing procedures for recompense are adequate, bearing in mind recent events.