A major train operator has had to cancel some services this weekend due to a "significant" number of staff having to self-isolate.
Great Western Railway (GWR) is running with a reduced timetable today (Saturday, July 10) and tomorrow due to the staff shortage.
Among the cancellations so far was the 11.30am from Bristol Temple Meads to London Paddington, according to a passenger who was due to board the service.
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Several passengers have taken to Twitter to complain of busy carriages as a result of the reduced service.
A statement on National Rail's website advises: "A shortage of train crew means that an amended Great Western Railway service is currently in operation today and on Sunday July 11, due to a significant number of staff having to self-isolate following notification from test and trace.
"Where possible customers will be contacted and advised of cancellations affecting their journey.
"Customers wishing to travel can choose to travel on alternative services immediately before or after their booked service or claim a full refund with no admin fee if their service is affected."
For services able to operate, the statement advises passengers that they are "expected to be busier than normal".
The same statement was issued by GWR on social media at 7am this morning.
One passenger tweeted GWR: "I’m on [the] 12.29 service from Swindon To Weston Super Mare Train is packed no seats & no social distancing more carriages are needed."
Another added: "Whilst your trains are really nice, I can’t understand why the 11:48 service to Swansea only has 5 carriages and is absolutely rammed?"
In response to passengers who have complained, GWR apologised and explained that this was due to the staff shortages.
Tweeting passengers back, a member of the social media team wrote: "I am really sorry for the crowding on board today.
"We had to cancel some services due to staff absence.
"This is because of a mixture of reasons, including staff having to self isolate through the track and trace system."
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