Major work on the West Coast main line near Kenilworth is now complete meaning trains can keep running at full speed between Coventry and Birmingham International.

The railway reopened yesterday (October 10) after a £1.4million investment which saw 650 metres of track replaced through Beechwood Tunnel.

The two-day closure near Berkswell saw rails, sleepers and ballast replaced to ensure trains can continue to travel through the tunnel at the full line speed of 110mph.

The works were carried out to make future journeys between Birmingham and London more reliable for passengers and freight.

Network Rail has thanked passengers for their patience during the investment.

Neil Gaskin, route programme director for Network Rail's Central route, said: "We know this work has meant longer journeys for passengers travelling over the weekend, so I'd like to thank everyone impacted for bearing with us while we carried out this essential work.

"We worked closely with train operators to keep people on the move despite ongoing industrial action, and now work is complete this vital section of the West Coast main line will continue to deliver safe, reliable journeys for passenger and freight services."

With work now complete, a normal timetable has resumed.

Network Rail replaced 650 metres of track replaced through Beechwood Tunnel (image via Network Rail)

Jonny Wiseman, customer experience director for West Midlands Trains, added: "I would like to thank our customers for their patience while these important upgrades were carried out.

"This section of railway between Birmingham and Coventry is one of the busiest in the West Midlands which makes it all the more important that the tracks are kept in good order."

Passengers are encouraged to always plan their journeys and check before travelling at www.nationalrail.co.uk.