More than 160 people were stopped from boarding a late-night train from London Euston to Northampton due to anti-social behaviour.

London Midland, which serves Watford Junction, has been deploying extra security on certain trains in recent weeks based on feedback from customers and staff.

Staff on the 12.30am train from London Euston to Northampton, dealt with 162 separate incidents of anti-social behaviour including drinking, smoking and noise.

Darren Hanley, head of revenue protection & security at London Midland, condemned the behaviour of those prevented from travelling.

He said: “Quite frankly these people were not fit to travel.

“We have implemented this initiative following direct feedback from what our staff and customers are telling us.

“This particular service needed action taking and we have invested in measures and solutions that will ensure the safety and welfare of all of those on board our service.”

He added: “Our staff should not be coming to work to face harassment, likewise, passengers shouldn’t be put in harm’s way and this initiative will directly improve the environment for all on board.”

Steve Helfet, head of West Coast Services at London Midland, added: “The safety and welfare of our customers and colleagues is our number one priority and we will do all we can to ensure that passengers feel safe and our team has the support they need.

“It is the few that spoil it for the many and our goal is to stamp this out with immediate effect – these early results are a step in the right direction.”

In addition to the 162 stopped from travelling, staff issued 26 penalty fares to people travelling without tickets.