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Sunday 22 Dec 2013

Rail passengers advised to check before travelling on Monday as severe weather approaches

Region & Route:

National

Passengers planning to travel by rail on Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 December are being advised to check with their train operator before travelling, as gale-force winds and heavy rain will mean changes to some scheduled services.

With winds of up to 80mph predicted, speed restrictions will be imposed on some routes, starting around mid-afternoon, to reduce the risk caused by trees, branches and other debris which can block lines and damage overhead power lines and signals. There is also an added risk of flooding as the weather front makes its way across the country from west to east.

Passengers intending to travel on Monday or Tuesday are advised to check with their train operators for the latest service information. A number of operators are asking passengers to travel earlier in the day on Monday if possible as a reduced service is likely in the afternoon and evening once speed restrictions are imposed. Normal ticket restrictions are being relaxed by many operators to ensure people can reach their destination as quickly and easily as possible at this important time of year.

Robin Gisby, managing director of operational services, Network Rail, said: “Our fundamental concern over the next 48 hours is to get everyone where they want to be for Christmas. It won’t be an easy task given the forecast conditions and disruption is likely – but I want to be very clear that our priority is running as many trains as we can safely, rather than worrying about hitting the timetable bang on.

“Hundreds of engineers and other staff will be across the network over the next two days, ready to react quickly to any problems, removing debris and fixing equipment where necessary. We will also be monitoring our system of more than 200 weather stations across the network to ensure we can respond to conditions on the ground rather than simply relying on forecasts.

“I’d like to thank passengers in advance for their patience and understanding. We and the train operators are doing all we can to limit disruption and keep trains running safely.”