Nearly 50 years separate the journey from hell and the journey from heaven for one York couple.

On December 27, 1952, Richard and Dorothy Whiting took a honeymoon trip on the Scots Pullman and it was "a most comfortable journey, the train was on time in snowy weather and there was an excellent dinner with waiter service".

But 48 years on, celebrating their wedding anniversary, the couple were faced with a litany of problems on their trip down to Wiltshire from York.

Travelling on the 9.26am Virgin service the couple, now aged 80 and 72 respectively, faced: A 25-minute delay at York; A broken-down locomotive; No hot drinks on the buffet; Loss of seat reservations; A missed connection.

Following their six-and-a-half hour ordeal, the returning train to York arrived with the carriages not even in alphabetical order resulting in "utter confusion".

"It became almost laughable," said Dorothy, of Redman Close, York. "It was such a long and annoying journey. It could not have been any more frustrating for us and other passengers."

Richard said: "During our 48 years together we have become seasoned rail travellers but we have seldom experienced such a frustrating experience and uncomfortable journey.

"The situation could not be explained by the confusion caused in the aftermath of the Hatfield disaster or the weather.

"High fares were being charged for Christmas holiday travel and in return passengers are entitled to a good service."

The couple have written to Virgin asking for a refund for their journey.

A spokeswoman for Virgin said: "First and foremost, sincere apologies for what sounds like a horrendous journey.

"We have had problems with our rolling stock, following flooding around the country and Railtrack-imposed speed restrictions."

She added the slower trains and withdrawn rolling stock were necessary in the interest of passenger safety.

* Have you had a rail journey from hell? If so contact Dan Rutstein on 01904 653051 ex 304 or e-mail as above.

Updated: 11:12 Thursday, January 11, 2001