Train operator cuts direct link between London and Midlands as pandemic bites

London Northwestern tweaks emergency timetable following passenger feedback
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Train operator London Northwestern Railway has cut its direct link between London and the Midlands from today in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Services frequencies were slashed by around half across the network from Monday as parent company West Midlands Trains juggled with protecting staff and passengers, coping with staff shortages caused by drivers and conductors having to self-isolate yet keeping trains running for key workers.

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Now, following the Prime Minister putting the UK into lockdown, the emergency timetable has been tweaked in response to customer feedback, splitting the service in two with trains running between London Euston and Northampton and between Birmingham New Street and Northampton.

A spokesman for LNWR said: "In response to passenger feedback, a revised coronavirus timetable will run from Thursday 26 March to help provide a more reliable service for key workers.

"Two trains an hour will run from Northampton to London via Milton Keynes. These will be formed of eight or 12 carriages and call at all stations.

"Please note there will be no direct London Northwestern services between London and the West Midlands or the North West. Customers already holding tickets may use Avanti West Coast services between Coventry or Rugby and London Euston."

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"Please remember: If your journey is not essential, please protect yourself and others by staying at home.

London Northwestern have scrapped direct trains between London and BirminghamLondon Northwestern have scrapped direct trains between London and Birmingham
London Northwestern have scrapped direct trains between London and Birmingham

"The health and wellbeing of everyone who uses the railway and staff is always our priority. We know passengers may have concerns, and London Northwestern Railway are working closely with government to take the steps needed to keep vital services moving while keeping customers safe."

Passengers are advised to check their journeys on National Rail Enquiries journey planner before travelling as short-notice cancellations remain possible.