COMMUTER chaos was avoided when a planned strike of South Eastern Train (SET) workers was suspended.

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union had planned to walk out on Monday over plans to reduce ticket office times and services.

The strike, which could have affected journeys across north Kent, was suspended pending a review into the closure of ticket offices.

The Government has said any reduction in services must be deferred until April, when Govia replace SET as rail operator for the area.

Dartford Council has lobbied against the closures though a series of public meetings and petitions to commuters.

Council leader Councillor Kenneth Leadbeater said: "The service provided by ticket staff extends beyond sales and into customer service, journey planning and security."