Delays hit rail passengers rushing to beat Christmas Eve strike

Sympathy and irritation from public as thousands of RMT union members at Network Rail prepare to strike

Rail passengers were facing delays as they rushed to get the last trains before Christmas Eve services came to a halt, while Britain's roads were braced for extra traffic as a result of the strikes on the railways.

People embarking on festive getaways or heading home for the holidays gathered on the concourses of major stations including London Euston and Birmingham New Street.