COMMUTERS were left unable to buy tickets online or at south Essex stations after a “network-wide technical issue”.

Bosses at c2c have apologised after the chaos across stations on Tuesday morning where the firm were “unable to sell tickets for a short period”.

This comes after Anna Firth, MP for Southend West, called for the rail company to improve their facilities following issues in Leigh.

Ms Firth claimed both ticket machines were out of order on Monday, only one ticket booth was open, and the lift was not working.

She said: “I am not impressed at Leigh station, two ticket machines out, only one ticket booth open, no lift working.

“A full service is urgently needed.

“It is not acceptable that customers are having to haul heavy luggage and pushchairs down stairs as the promised lift has still not been delivered, and that customers with additional needs are left unsupported.

“I am delighted to have recently been assured by ministers in the Commons that Leigh and Chalkwell stations will both be having their number of staff hours increased, and will continue to campaign for better, more effective transport for the people of Southend.”

In response, a spokesman for c2c added: “Providing a stable ticketing system, minimising disruption where possible, is of utmost importance to the team at c2c.”

Many commuters took to social media to share their frustrations with the technical issues, and recent troubles of ticket machines being out of order.

c2c bosses confirmed they are investigating the issue with the ticket systems.

Rob Mullen, c2c managing director, added: “We are really sorry to all of our customers who were disrupted this morning; we know it was really frustrating for people.

“Unfortunately, a network-wide technical issue impacted ticket purchases both online and at our stations, meaning we were unable to sell tickets for a short period.

“We are investigating the issue as a priority and encourage any customers delayed claiming compensation for the inconvenience.”

For anyone delayed and affected, for details on compensation, visit https://www.c2c-online.co.uk/help-feedback/delay-repay/