COMMUTERS endured mixed experiences on the first day of travelling into work with the Severn Tunnel closed for electrification.

The 130-year-old tunnel between Caldicot and Pilning, north of Bristol, will be closed for six weeks while 200 engineers from Network Rail take on the eight-mile tunnel.

While several commuters had to suffer earlier alarms, others opted to use the replacement bus service on offer from Newport to Bristol Parkway or their own transport.

Emma Williams, from Beechwood, spoke to the Argus yesterday about having to carpool with four colleagues to Bristol.

Mrs Williams admitted that the first journey was a smooth one aside from heavy traffic outside Bristol, which "was expected".

"There were no massive issues aside from the traffic but it's still very early days," said Mrs Williams.

According to Mrs Williams, a colleague at the Royal Bank of Scotland’s offices claimed to have had to wait two hours on a bus service from Newport to Bristol Parkway.

Danny Rose, who lives in Caldicot, works as a motorcycle technician just outside Temple Meads and admitted that the closure has 'put a spanner in the works'.

Mr Rose, who is now forced to catch an 'extra early' train, said: "As I work five minutes from Temple Meads it's the most efficient and cost effective way to commute for me.

He added: "It's certainly put a spanner in the works."

Suzanne Thomas, also of Caldicot, said that the closures have also added an extra hour onto her journey each way.

Mrs Thomas, who has already paid for a yearly season ticket, has to get a bus at 6.10am to ensure that she gets into work on time.

Concerns have also been raised by residents living near the station, including Sophie Wangemann who lives at The Pill on the outskirts of Caldicot.

The estate requires driving over a level crossing in the Old Pill Farm Industrial Estate in Portskewett and Miss Wangemann fears that an increase in traffic could restrict access to her home.

With the tunnel acting as a crucial point for London commuters, news of 'economical' flights from Cardiff Airport to London City Airport has been welcomed by Economy Secretary Ken Skates.

Mr Skates said: “The link between South Wales and South East England is essential for businesses and commuters and I’m delighted that Cardiff Airport is providing a solution to what might otherwise be costly time delays.