A major train line will be handed over to a new operator at the weekend.

First Capital Connect (FCC) has been running trains along the Thameslink route between Brighton and Bedford since 2006.

On Sunday the franchise will pass over to Govia Thameslink Railway.

FCC managing director David Statham said: “We are committed to helping our passengers through this change.

“This is why our website will still be open until at least October 19 for queries about travel made before the transition to the new franchise, including any questions and also information about delay-repay travel compensation and other refunds."

“There has been a huge amount of change during our franchise which has delivered a lot of improvements and I would to thank our passengers for their patience and custom throughout.

“It’s been an exciting time – not without its challenges for ourselves and our passengers but with massive capacity improvement schemes on both routes and a raft of other improvements.”