More than 2,000 workers from Network Rail were out on the railway in west London over Christmas as part of the Crossrail engineering works.

A total of 1,300 metres of new track was laid, along with 10,000 tonnes of ballast.

124 machines and 18 cranes were used over the Christmas period in order to complete the engineering work which also included the installation of 114 new structures in order to carry overhead electric wires

Significant work included major track and signalling work in Acton , Old Oak Common and Paddington .

Stations were also upgraded over the Christmas period, with Southall , Hayes & Harlington , West Ealing and Ealing Broadway stations getting a revamp.

Network Rail have also begun electrifying the railway in west London, in order to start rolling out electric trains that they claim will be quicker, quieter and more reliable.

Matthew Steele, Crossrail programme director at Network Rail, said: “We have been planning this huge package of upgrade work for many months - getting it done on time is down to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved.

“We know that our upgrade work can at times be disruptive, so I would like to thank passengers and lineside neighbours for their patience during the Christmas period.

“This work, which is part of our Railway Upgrade Plan, is vital to delivering quicker journeys, improved stations and better connections for Crossrail and will bring huge benefits to the communities through which the route runs.”

Matthew White, surface director at Crossrail said: “Crossrail will provide a step change in public transport for many thousands of people in outer London, Berkshire and Essex.

“Around three quarters of the Crossrail route will run above ground on the existing rail network and the improvements that have been delivered by Network Rail over Christmas are a crucial part of the successful delivery of the new railway.”