Train services around Windsor and Ascot face delays and disruption until Saturday as a five day strike action by the RMT union bites.

The strike will be particularly felt by Ascot racegoers, although it is unlikely to equal the disruption caused by the famous 1955 train strike that led to Royal Ascot actually being postponed for a month.

On this occasion services will be reduced but not stopped.

A South Western Railway spokesperson said: "Passengers are strongly advised to plan their travel in advance as services are likely to be busier than usual because of the strike action. Rail replacement services and ticket acceptance on other bus and rail networks have been organised where possible, whilst fans attending events at Twickenham, Hampton Court, Royal Ascot, and elsewhere, are advised to allow extra time for their travel.

"Customers will be able to see amendments to their train services, including additional main line peak-time services over and above what has been previously announced, live on the website: southwesternrailway.com/rmtstrike"