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GWR ramps up service as schools set to return

Great Western Railway will increase the number of trains it runs as schools and colleges across its network prepare to return to the classroom next week.

Rail services were reduced when a third nationwide lockdown was introduced in January, and the rail operator is implementing a phased return to its previous, full timetable.

The train operator has reviewed its database of ‘school trains’, services that students and pupils use in high numbers, and ensured that those services where they have been removed are reinstated for Monday 8 March as schools return. Extra staff will also be on hand at key stations to help provide advice and guidance to returning students.

The increase will see the train operator return to approximately 70% of its pre-Covid (Dec 19) timetable, with a further increase planned for Monday 29 March to support any easing of Government travel guidance, prior to the usual Summer timetable change in May.

GWR Managing Director Mark Hopwood said:

“Following confirmation that all schools and colleges will return on Monday 8 March all our key school and college services will be operating.

“Many are already running, but where they are not, we will have them reinstated to support students, pupils and returning staff.

“Over the last year, we have worked closely with colleges and schools as well as our colleagues on mapping these services, and a lot of hard work has been done to make sure people feel that they can travel safely and with confidence.

“As restrictions ease over the course of the coming months and more passengers return to the railway, we will continue to restore services to our timetable.”

For those looking to plan journeys during the early Summer, cheaper Advance fares for travel during May will be available from mid-March.

GWR is presently operating a reduced timetable during the latest national lockdown and customers should follow Government guidelines, only travelling for work if essential or for other legally permitted reasons. Find out more at gwr.com/safety.

GWR has been providing rail services throughout the pandemic and has worked to ensure that these are as safe as possible. This includes increased cleaning regimes and the use of a virucidal spray; extra staff at key stations to offer help and guidance; and processes in place to help customers maintain a safe distance where possible, such as restricting the number of reservations available.