A south-west MP has called for the introduction of a rail resilience conference.

The recent bad weather to hit the UK has caused widespread disruption to the rail network, not least at Dawlish, where the main line was washed away by high tides. With repairs at the site now expecting to last until mid-April, the member of parliament for Plymouth has demanded a meeting of key stakeholders, agencies and ministers.

Alison Seabeck claimed that such incidents highlight the vulnerability of the rail system and further investment was needed to improve resilience. She also accused the local council of going silent about whether the funding they were promised would actually materialise.

"I really feel for those whose homes and businesses have been directly affected by the extreme weather", she added. "Plymouth waterfront has been severely hit, with many pubs and restaurants being devastatingly damaged."

Meanwhile, First Great Western has announced the introduction of a temporary service from Paddington to Exeter. A special coach service will also provide passengers with links to Bodmin, Truro and Newton Abbott.