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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Andrew Bardsley

Train services from Manchester to London to return to normal from Monday

Train services from Manchester to London are set to run as normal from Monday as lockdown measures ease.

Avanti West Coast, the firm which took over the service from Virgin Trains last year, is set to increase its timetable.

It will mean the route from Manchester to Euston Station will return to its usual pre-lockdown frequency of three trains per hour.

Despite today's easing of some lockdown measures, people are still being urged to avoid non-essential use of public transport.

New laws imposed last month made it compulsory for people to wear a face covering, which covers the face and mouth, while using public transport.

Anyone who does not comply with the new rules can face sanctions including a fine.

There are some exceptions, and people are not required to wear face coverings while in shops.

Train companies have introduced changes to help people travel more safely as the coronavirus crisis continues.

These measures include installing signs urging passengers to stay two metres apart where possible, enhanced cleaning of carriages, and vending machines selling face coverings at stations.

Industry body the Rail Delivery Group (RDG) has said train services are expected to increase from around 70 per cent of pre-lockdown levels to 85 per cent.

RDG director of nations and regions Robert Nisbet said: "While we are still asking people only to take the train if necessary, as the lockdown is eased further we are stepping up timetables and taking other steps so people can travel with confidence.

"In return, we want people to help us by avoiding the busiest times, wearing a face covering and checking the latest train information online before setting off."

National Rail is advising people travelling to London to avoid changing to tubes and buses when they arrive in the capital.

Passengers are instead being asked to consider walking or cycling to their destination.

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