A major train service operator has today announced plans to change rail timetables over the Christmas period.

TransPennine Express (TPE) have warned customers across the North East and Scotland amendments to journeys will be introduced starting from Sunday, December 11.

The train operator has urged passengers to check their journeys to check if any changes have been made.

This comes after major engineering work is being carried out by Network Rail, taking place throughout their new timetable, including over Christmas and through to the New Year.

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In a statement today, Kathryn O’Brien, Customer Service and Operations Director at TransPennine Express said: “We are planning to make some changes to our current timetable next month and are encouraging customers to check their journeys taking place from 11 December onwards.

“Our number one focus is providing the most reliable and punctual service possible for customers, and we continue to prioritise this following the recent disruption which has impacted some of those using our trains.

“In light of the current challenges affecting our services, we have to be realistic and have made some short-term changes to what we originally wanted to deliver. 

"Our priority is delivering a train service people can depend on whether it’s getting them to work, school or an important appointment.”

As a result of the engineering work, services provided by TransPennine Express will be significantly impacted.

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The transport network for North TransPennine includes services from Newcastle to Manchester Airport, Redcar/Middlesbrough to Manchester Airport, Scarborough to Liverpool, Edinburgh to Liverpool, Newcastle to Edinburgh and Hull to Manchester Piccadilly.

Following a £500 million investment, TPE are aiming to transform rail services through high levels of performance, investment in stations, enhanced accessibility, measures to improve sustainability, and more investment.

Customers are urged to check their journeys using National Rail Enquiries or via the TPE website.

More information on this can be found here.

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