Hitchin commuters are being promised more comfortable journeys as Thameslink prepares to replace the much-criticised seats across its entire fleet.

More than 60,000 standard-class seats on Thameslink's 115 trains will receive new spring and memory foam cushions, alongside redesigned backrests offering improved support for passengers' shoulders and heads.

Installation will begin in 2027 and take place over two years, allowing the work to be completed without disrupting services.

The upgrade will benefit passengers using Thameslink trains through Hitchin, including commuters travelling south towards London, Gatwick Airport and Brighton.

The existing seats have frequently been labelled "ironing boards" by passengers because of their thin padding and limited comfort, particularly on longer journeys.

According to the Department for Transport, the replacement cushions will offer up to 57 per cent more "give" than the current design.

First-class seats will receive the same improved cushions, while seat-back tables will be fitted to the 69 trains in the fleet which currently do not have them.

The improvements have been agreed under an existing contract between operator Govia Thameslink Railway and Siemens Mobility, meaning there will be no additional cost to taxpayers.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: "From next year, we'll start getting rid of the dreaded 'ironing-board' seats so passengers can enjoy comfier, more pleasant journeys on some of Britain's busiest commuter routes.

"We know fixing Britain's railway is more than a refurb job. Great British Railways will focus relentlessly on delivering a reliable, modern service that puts a better experience at the heart of everything it does for passengers."

The announcement comes 100 days after GTR, which operates Thameslink, moved into public ownership.

More than £3.6 million is also being invested in refurbishing the outside of trains and refreshing onboard facilities. Almost 300 train toilet interiors have already been upgraded, including the installation of new wall coverings intended to deter graffiti and antisocial behaviour.

GTR chief executive John Whitehurst said passengers had helped the company select the new seat design through comfort testing.

"By testing comfort options with the people who use our trains every day, we've chosen a cushion that will make journeys more comfortable across our network," he said.

"I'm really pleased for our customers and look forward to seeing the new seats come on board from 2027."

The seating work will form part of an 11-year overhaul of the Thameslink fleet being delivered with train manufacturer Siemens Mobility.