THE Prime Minister has said "the bell is tolling" for the company which runs train services to Birmingham, an MP has said.

It follows months of reports from commuters of congestion, delays and train cancellations on West Midlands Railways.

West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin quizzed Boris Johnson on plans to hold an emergency inspection by the Department for Transport, which could lead to the franchise being removed.

Mrs Baldwin has held a series of emergency talks with managers at West Midlands Trains, who operate the franchise, over recent weeks following escalating reports of poor performance.

She described the service as "woeful" and has formally written to the Secretary of State for Transport asking for him to investigate the matter.

She added: "I keep hearing excuses and promises of better performance in the future, but rail users want improvements now.

"The West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street, has also taken a close look at this matter and he has given the company until the end of the month to show some urgent improvement.

"I am pleased that the Government is looking hard at this issue and if necessary, use its powers to strip the franchise holder of the failing services.

"I hope that the rail company is listening hard and is making an urgent plan of action to give commuters a better, value-for-money service in the coming days and weeks."