TALKS over securing funds for much-needed improvements to a major rail line in Waltham Forest have broken down, it is claimed.

The diesal-operated Barking to Gospel Oak line, which includes stations in Leyton, Leytonstone and Walthamstow, is earmarked for electrification in order to improve the service.

The conversion is expected to significantly increase capacity and efficiency on a line which often suffers from overcrowding.

The Barking-Gospel Oak Line User Group now claim Transport Minister Lord Adonis, speaking at the Rail Freight Conference last week, said negotiations with London Mayor Boris Johnson over funding have broken down.

Campaigners say electrification would enable the running of longer, more efficient trains to alleviate overcrowding.