A train operator that runs services through Lockerbie is urging passengers not to travel on Saturday.
Avanti West Coast is also cutting back scheduled services with a temporary timetable due to a dispute with ASLEF.
Train drivers in ASLEF are set to walk out at Avanti West Coast and eight other train operators on Saturday as they want a pay rise in line with inflation.
A statement on the train firm’s website asks that on Saturday customers do not “travel on Avanti West Coast – we will not be running any services on our routes”.
The firm has also revealed it is introducing a reduced timetable on services due to “the current industrial relations climate which has resulted in severe staff shortages in some grades through increased sickness levels, as well as unofficial strike action by ASLEF members”.
But that has been disputed by ASLEF general secretary, Mick Whelan who said: “We are on strike at Avanti West Coast on Saturday.
“That is official industrial action after an overwhelming mandate from members fed up with an intransigent chief executive who refuses to give drivers an increase in line with inflation for a third successive year.
“There is – and has been – no unofficial action on Avanti West Coast this week.
“The truth is that the company does not employ enough drivers to deliver the services it has promised passengers it will run.”
Avanti West Coast managing director, Phil Whittingham, has urged rail unions to “engage in meaningful industry reform talks around modernising working practices and developing a railway fit for the 21st century”.
He added that the industry “remains open for talks at any time”.
The ASLEF walk-out isn’t the only strike action set to hit passengers this month.
That will result in ScotRail, TransPennine Express and Avanti West Coast services being hit.
