Thousands of commuters stayed away from work today as strike action crippled the rail network across Sussex.

Connex was operating just one in ten of its normal services from Brighton station, while other parts of Sussex had no trains at all.

Those that did struggle into London face a nightmare journey home tonight, with all services finishing at 6pm.

The first train from Brighton this morning was packed but later services were quiet as it became apparent many people had either taken the day off or decided to work from home.

Integrated Transport Information Services, which provides travel data, said a "nightmare" on London's roads was averted because people decided to stay away from the capital.

Traffic between Sussex and London increased by an estimated 15 per cent, although a series of early morning breakdowns and accidents made congestion worse.

"The real nightmare was averted because many people, often with their employers' consent, took days off or worked from home," said Nick Simmons, business development director of ITIS.

"However, the worry is that if the further five planned strikes go ahead, employers will be less understanding and will start to demand that their people make it in, come what may."

The concourse at Brighton Station was quiet this morning.

While those who did turn up in the hope of catching a train were resigned to arriving late, some supported the striking train drivers while others were angered by their action.

Antony and Sarah Parham, of Clifton Street, Brighton, were catching the 7.47am, the first train of the day to Victoria.

Mrs Parham, an advertising executive, said: "The strike does not make any difference - Connex is useless all the time.

"I do feel sorry for the workers but I don't feel sorry for those who run the company. I don't think they know how to do it."

Although the couple hoped to reach their jobs in Soho and Vauxhall relatively on time, they said the real test would be travelling back from London tonight.

Personnel officer Karen Lucas normally catches her morning train to Victoria from Lewes but had to get up early and travel to Brighton this morning to make the connection. She said: "The drivers have got a point and they have to prove it somehow. But if the strike goes on for six days I will probably stay at home.

"I had to leave at 5.50am but the bigger worry is getting home. I'm going to have to leave early."

Eric Van Der Kleij also had to travel to Brighton Station to catch the 7.47am train to Victoria instead of his usual 7.03am service from Shoreham.

The Internet company director said many of his staff lived on the coast but had pulled together to find places to stay in London to make sure it was business as usual.

And Neil Harrison, of Falmer, was angry he was going to be late for an important meeting in King's Cross.

He said: "I had to get a taxi here and I am not happy about it.

"I am not in support of the strike because all they want is to reduce their hours from 37 to 35 and they get paid enough anyway."

Station manager Angie Wilson said the station was far quieter than usual.

She said: "People are not travelling unless it's absolutely necessary or are making alternative arrangements.

"The trains that left were busy but not overfull and we have to make sure that there is room for passengers at the other stops."

The drivers' union, Aslef, said its members were solidly supporting the strike.

General secretary Mick Rix said: "We are deeply saddened by the disruption caused to rail travellers, but we remain available for talks."

The strike, the first of six planned 24-hour walkouts, will cost Connex more than £1 million a day.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.