MORE trains are now running on the Merseyrail network, as part of the Prime Minister's plan to gradually reduce lockdown measures.

The frequency and number of rail services on the Merseyrail network has increased, but is still below pre-lockdown numbers.

Boris Johnson's announcement a week ago included guidance that people working in industries such as construction and manufacturing can now begin returning to work.

The guidance issued makes clear that only those that absolutely must travel by train, should do so.

In accordance with this, Merseyrail has increased services to a level that aims to meet an increase in demand, whilst taking into account the number of railway staff isolating due to the virus.

Passengers are reminded that these services are for essential journeys only and urged to follow social distancing guidelines when using the trains.

If you can use alternative forms of transport including cycling or walking please do so in line with the government guidance.

Trains will operate within normal operating hours, at a reduced frequency, from Monday to Saturday.

West Kirby and New Brighton lines:

Trains will run every 30 minutes until approximately 7pm, then every 45 minutes until end of service.

Chester line:

Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then every 60 minutes until end of service.

Ellesmere Port line:

Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then a reduced frequency until end of service.

Southport Hunts Cross line:

Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then every 60 minutes until end of service.

Additional services will operate during peak times Monday to Friday.

Ormskirk line:

Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then every 60 minutes until end of service.

Kirkby line:

Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then every 60 minutes until end of service.

Sunday

Sunday services will still operate between the hours of 8am and 8pm.

Full details of the timetable are online at www.merseyrail.org.

Andy Heath, managing director at Merseyrail, said: "We have been working with government and key stakeholders to develop an increased service that aims to meet demand for those who need to travel.

"It is essential that everyone plays their part in helping to keep the trains for those who really need them.

"So, only use our services if you absolutely must while maintaining social distancing where it is possible to do so.

"We are committed to providing a reliable service to those who need to travel across the Liverpool City Region as we move through these uncertain times, and I would ask all passengers to act responsibly at all times when travelling, and listen to advice given by staff and displayed at our stations."

In line with government advice released by the Department for Transport, Merseyrail is encouraging passengers to follow social distancing guidelines when using the network:

  • Maintain social distancing wherever possible
  • Wear face coverings if you can
  • Use contactless payments where possible
  • Avoid peak travel if you can
  • Arrive at the station in good time
  • Leave plenty of time for your journey – you might not make the train you planned due to social distancing measures
  • Wash or sanitise hands as soon as possible before and after travel
  • Follow advice from staff and be considerate to other passengers
  • Please be kind and respectful to staff and other passengers.
  • Passengers are also advised to check before and on their day of travel.