Europe



Train companies have started cancelling services over the Bank Holiday because of a planned strike by thousands of Network Rail (NR) workers in a row over pay, even though peace talks are continuing.

Commuters make their way off their train at Blackfriars Station in the morning rush hour

Commuters make their way off their train at Blackfriars Station. Image by Andrew Matthews/PA Wire

West Coast main line operator Virgin Trains scrapped all services on Monday and Tuesday and warned it would only be able to run a very limited number of trains on its East Coast line over the two days.

An outline of how the strike will affect all train companies is expected tomorrow, but passengers were warned to expect severe disruption if the 24 walkout goes ahead from 5pm on Monday.

CrossCountry Trains, Chiltern Railways, Arriva Trains Wales, First Great Western and ScotRail were among those giving passengers an early idea of the travel chaos they can expect.

Passengers were being advised not to travel unless “absolutely necessary”, with widespread cancellations expected, leading to packed trains.

A legal challenge by NR against the Transport Salaried Staffs Association (TSSA) ballot is listed for tomorrow afternoon in the High Court.

NR also urged train passengers to be prepared for the strike, saying it could not bank on unions calling off the planned stoppage.

(Press Association)