Connex was also fined for poor service in January 2002

The penalty is more than six times the fine imposed on Connex for underperforming at the same time last year.

The train firm, which runs services in south-east England, admitted service had been poor - but said it would improve.

Connex became the first rail operator to be stripped of a franchise since privatisation when it lost the south central area deal two years ago.

'There will be improvements'

A spokeswoman for Connex said: "January was a difficult month for us.

"We were hit by snow in Kent and central London during the month.

"We always keep passengers informed of our performance figures and we hold regular meetings with passengers so they can put forward their views.

"There will be improvements, especially as we are in the process of replacing all our old slam-door rolling stock with new trains."

Connex South Eastern runs services between London terminals and Kent stations and some services into East Sussex, including the Charing Cross to Hastings line.