CITY rail passengers will face disruption over the next couple of weeks as a £2million upgrade is carried on the tracks at Plymouth Station.

Work starting yesterday will affect routes between Plymouth and Exeter but Network Rail said the eventual improvements would bring 'tremendous benefits' to the region.

Travellers should expect to see bus replacement services and delays as changes to the train timetable will continue until the work is completed, February 2.

The work at Plymouth will involve renewing of five sets of switches and crossings near the city's station.

Dave Ward, route director for Network Rail, said: "These improvements will bring tremendous benefits for passengers, delivering a more reliable railway for many years to come.

"They will also reduce the need for intrusive maintenance, and the track works should provide passengers with a much smoother ride."

Mavis Choong, media relations manager for Network Rail, said: "Many people don't realise the importance of these essential basic improvements; it will mean there are fewer problems in the future."

Network Rail says the works are part of an overall investment of £10million in six separate track sections in Devon.

Passengers are advised to check their travel time with their train operators or with National Rail Enquiries on 08457 48 49 50 before starting out on their journey.