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Monday 12 May 2008

PASSENGER UPDATE: UEFA CUP FINAL TRAVEL INFORMATION

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

Network Rail is urging Rangers fans planning to travel to Manchester from Glasgow Central and Edinburgh Waverley only to arrive at the station if they have reserved seats.

Virgin Trains and First Trans-Pennine Express have both experienced huge levels of demand and, with priority being given to passengers with booked seats, it cannot be guaranteed that fans without reservations will be able to board services.

Fans are also reminded that the British Transport Police plans to enforce an alcohol ban on all services and passengers could be searched before they board trains. Drinking within the stations is also illegal outwith licensed bars.

David Simpson, Network Rail Route Director Scotland, said: “Central and Waverley are already the two busiest stations in Scotland and while our staff will make every effort to help fans on their way, we’d urge them to help us by only coming to the station if they’re sure they can travel.

“Only fans with seat reservations are guaranteed to be able to board a train service and it is highly unlikely that those without reservations will be able to reach Manchester by train in time for the game.”

A Virgin Trains spokesman added: “Virgin Trains would like everyone to have a trouble-free and enjoyable journey. To help achieve this, priority will be given to people with seat reservations. Anyone else will have to wait in the queue and risks not getting to travel in time. We think it is only fair to warn fans in advance to avoid disappointment on the day.”