Reduced rail services from Monday to help key workers

Train companies will operate a reduced service from Monday in order to provide a more reliable service for key worker "heroes" such as emergency services and healthcare professionals.

The Department of Transport said core services will still run, ensuring people can travel to medical appointments and to allow vital goods - food and fuel - to be shipped around the country where needed.

The changes come after the Government issued guidelines warning against all but essential travel as the Covid-19 pandemic continues.

Robert Nisbet, director of nations and regions at the Rail Delivery Group, which represents train operators and Network Rail, said the measures are being taken in a time of "extraordinary national challenge".

"This is not a decision we take lightly," he said.

Mr Nisbet said the group would be monitoring demand for services closely in the weeks ahead and would adjust timetables accordingly.

The Department of Transport said it intends to reduce the services gradually over the coming days to minimise disruption.

South Western Railway acknowledged that it is "a difficult time" for passengers but urged people to follow official advice.