THOUSANDS of railway workers are due to strike later this month causing travel chaos across Hampshire and the rest of the country.

South Western Railway (SWR) says its services will be "significantly affected" during what is said to be the biggest strike on the railways since 1989.

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) announced strike dates on Tuesday.

It means "significant parts" of the SWR network will not be running on June 21, 23 and 25.

Routes that are open will experience reduced services. 

Network Rail signallers will be amongst those demanding higher pay, as will more than 2,100 SWR RMT members. 

READ MORE: Talks planned in bid to avert rail strikes

Claire Mann, Managing Director of SWR said: “I understand that the announcement of upcoming industrial action will worry many of our customers, particularly against the backdrop of significant cost of living pressures.  

“We are carefully finalising contingency plans, but I’m afraid this action will mean that many customers will be unable to travel by rail. 

“If customers can change their date of travel, or make alternative arrangements, I urge them to begin making those arrangements as soon as possible."

The managing director thanked customers for their patience as the industry deals with the "unprecedented industrial action.” 

Preparations are now being made to update hospitals, schools, airports and businesses across the network as to how they will be affected. 

An updated timetable is being drawn up and customers are being asked to check SWR's website for updates.

READ MORE: Rail union plans for largest industrial action in decades

But now Jeremy Varns of SWR Watch, a group that campaigns for better rail services across the network has said the news is "highly disappointing". 

"The railways are still recovering from lockdowns, changing work patterns and a corresponding drop in income. 

"We're often told that strikes are a last resort, yet General Secretary, Mick Cash, appears to be relishing the chance to 'shut down' the network, seemingly indifferent to the impact this will have on passengers.

"While many of our followers may disagree with my position on this planned industrial action, there is almost universal agreement that the government must do more to energise the sector post-Covid."

He went on to call for greater investment in the industry in order to create more jobs, services and lower fares. 

"Yet, train travel is currently too expensive, and the unions must accept some blame for this. 

"But my message to striking rail workers is this; preventing those who rely on a functioning train service from making a living themselves is not the way to make your point. 

"I'd also urge the RMT leadership to get back to the negotiating table and to do so in good faith.  Striking is a sign of failure on all sides, not cause for celebration."

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