Britain’s most unreliable train lines have been revealed, with Bedford train station making an unfortunate appearance three times in the top four for least punctual services.

According to a study by travel experts at BounceThe 7.30 Bedford to 9.40 Three Bridges service takes the top spot as the worst performing route in the UK.

Only 14% of trains on this service arrive on time, despite 95% of scheduled trains running.

Another Bedford service, the 07.33 to Three Bridges, ranks third, with just 32% of trains arriving on time and 81% of regular services operating.

The 07.03 Bedford to 8.59 Three Bridges service also comes in fourth place, with an on-time rate of 33%.

Together, these figures paint a bleak picture for commuters who rely on Bedford’s rail services.

Second place is taken by the 17.46 London Euston to 19.57 Crewe, where only 17% of trains arrive on time, although 93% of scheduled trains run.

The study also highlighted problems at major train stations. Birmingham New Street was found to be the least reliable, with just under 40% of trains arriving on time and a cancellation rate of five per cent.

Manchester Piccadilly and York followed close behind, with 42% of trains arriving on time and higher than average cancellation rates.

More bad news for travelers based in Bedford, anyone planning to use Thameslink services between London and Bedford over Christmas should prepare for further disruption.

Engineering works north of St Pancras will stop all trains between St Pancras and Harpenden for nine days, from Saturday 21 December to Sunday 29 December.

Replacement buses will run but are expected to be extremely busy.

Services to Gatwick Airport and Luton Airport will also be reduced.

For passengers across the country, here is the full list of Britain’s 10 most unreliable train lines:

1. 7:30 Bedford to 9:40 Three Bridges – 14% of trains on time

2. 17.46 London Euston to 19.57 Crewe – 17% of trains on time

3. 07.33 Bedford to 09.28 Three Bridges – 32% of trains on time

4. 07.03 Bedford to 08.59 Three Bridges – 33% of trains on time

5. 14.57 Gloucester to 17.07 Maesteg – 37% of trains on time

6. 07.14 Alton to 8.22 London Waterloo – 40% of trains on time

7. 18.30 London Waterloo to 20.12 Portsmouth Harbor – 43% of trains on time

8. 06.14 Stourbridge Junction to 8.42 London Marylebone – 45% of trains on time

9. 06.10 Portsmouth Harbor to 07.54 London Waterloo – 51% of trains on time

10. 07.46 Prince’s Risborough to 8.38 London Marylebone – 73% of trains on time

Passengers are advised to check schedules and plan ahead to avoid delays and overcrowding during the busy holiday season.