NORTHERN Rail, which operates trains from both Warrington Central and Bank Quay railway stations, has introduced a new timetable to help key workers and those on essential journeys.

The new timetable, which comes into force on Monday, will see the introduction of additional services on some routes, but significantly reduces overall capacity on trains to assist with social distancing.

Current Government advice says people should avoid public transport where possible, with Northern reiterating that its services should only be used by “key workers and those whose journeys are essential-use rail services.”

If you do have to make a rail journey, Northern advise passengers to adhere to social distancing guidelines where possible, wash their hands before and after travel and, if possible, wear a face covering.

The firm also claims it is improving cleaning on “touch points at stations and on trains”.

A Northern spokesperson said: “From next week we will begin to introduce an amended timetable that will introduce additional services on some routes. However, due to social distancing, there will be significantly reduced capacity on each and every one of our trains.

"We're therefore calling on people to help us keep the railway clear for those who need it most and to only take the train if there’s no other way to travel. Those customers who have to travel by train should plan ahead, check the new timetable, and consider whether journeys are absolutely essential.”