RAIL users should book their places on Christmas services early or risk disappointment, First Great Western is warning.

The train operator, whose services between London, South Wales and the South Coast also serve Swindon says seats on its Christmas and New Year services are selling well already.

Managing director Mike Carroll said: "The number of reservations so far is really encouraging.

"We're committed to running safe and reliable services, and with the usual traffic congestion and poor weather before Christmas, booking the train early is certainly the best option.

"I'm really pleased that, once again, thousands of people are choosing to use First Great Western to visit their loved ones for the festive period."

Mr Carroll added that bookings on services to the West of England were particularly brisk, with a large number of seats already reserved.

Departures from London Paddington on the evening of Friday, December 21, are proving especially popular, as are lunchtime departures from the same station on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, December 20, 22 and 23.

Mr Carroll said booking early would also allow customers to buy the best value tickets.

Details of services are available on (08457) 484950.