Thames Trains is to cut the number of services on the Oxford to Bristol route because of driver shortages and a lack of customer interest.

The route, run in conjunction with First Great Western, was launched in June 1998, but has recently suffered a drop in leisure passenger numbers.

The drop was blamed on the aftermath of the Hatfield Rail crash, when speed restrictions were imposed to allow track safety work, foot and mouth and the drop in tourism since September 11.

On average, 10 services a day carry less than 30 customers, although each train has seating for more than 180. An average of two to three trains have also been cancelled at short notice every week because of a lack of drivers.

Thames Trains spokesman Jonathan Radley said: "We have had a lot of drivers retire -- last year there were 22 -- and we have 50 people being trained at the moment.

"We don't have a problem attracting new drivers, but it takes time for each driver to complete the course."

Services will be cut when the summer timetable is introduced on June 2. The changes have been introduced in consultation with the Strategic Rail Authority.

The number will be cut from 13 to nine journeys in each direction Monday to Friday and the Saturday service will be reduced from 12 to nine and the Sunday service from six to five.