Alison Forster said the previous year had been an "enormous challenge" and FGW had learnt many lessons.

She said extra trains were being put on some routes and that �3m had been allocated to improve train interiors.

In January FGW apologised to rail users "for not meeting expectations" after a protest by hundreds of passengers.

Customers will see real benefits soon Alison Forster, FGW

They were complaining about late and crowded trains.

Some have had to endure a reduced service since a revised timetable was introduced in December.

FGW said modifications to the timetable would improve the service it offered.

It has promised a better catering service on all trains leaving the capital and said more customer service staff would be drafted in during times of disruption.

FGW said it also planned to recruit extra customer relations staff.

Ms Forster said: "We have not always been successful and have apologised for letting people down.