Hull Trains services will be back to pre-pandemic levels from December as public confidence in rail travel continues to grow.
The number of passengers returning has been steadily increasing in recent months, leading to renewed confidence from the operator - with a record timetable now factored in for the Christmas run-up.
It comes after the Covid-19 pandemic saw numbers drop 70 per cent - with three periods of ‘hibernation’ as the open access operator missed out on any further financial support beyond the furlough scheme.
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From December 12, the FirstGroup company will be running 94 services - the highest service level ever offered on the direct link to King’s Cross - beating its previous record of 92.
“This represents a significant milestone for Hull Trains as we grow back to recovery and beyond,” said new managing director David Gibson.
An additional service will be introduced on Sundays to match the six services already offered on Saturdays. A seventh service will become part of the regular weekday timetable and ten-car operations will begin on Fridays and Saturdays to provide additional capacity just in time for festive travel and the general growing demand as it gears up for 2022.
Mr Gibson said the news will be welcomed by everyone associated with Hull Trains following one of the most challenging periods in its history.
“We are welcoming back loyal passengers, as well as enticing new passengers to rail. Our trains are some of the most modern and environmentally friendly on the rail network and we are determined to provide safe, reliable and comfortable journeys.
“Delivering the highest levels of service ever offered by Hull Trains will allow us to break back to profitability and drive the business forward strongly and with confidence.”
Mr Gibson joined at the start of the month following Louise Cheeseman’s move to head up buses for Transport for London.
It came as the business celebrated its 21st anniversary with the receipt of the final Hitachi train following a £60 million investment in the five-strong fleet - complete with commemorative livery.
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