Train services cut by HALF from Monday from Corby, Kettering and Wellingborough

Emergency timetable coming in to keep railway moving for key workers
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Train services through Northamptonshire will be cut by HALF from Monday (March 23) as the coronavirus pandemic grips staff and passengers.

Only one train an hour will call at Kettering and Wellingborough instead of the usual two while an hourly shuttle service will connect Corby to the rest of the Midland Main Line. Some extra trains may run during the morning and even peak hours

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East Midlands Railway, which operates the route from London to Nottingham and Sheffield, says the move to an emergency timetable will help keep trains moving for essential workers.

East Midlands Trains will start running an emergency timetable from MondayEast Midlands Trains will start running an emergency timetable from Monday
East Midlands Trains will start running an emergency timetable from Monday

Government advice to avoid all non-essential travel has already resulted in a dramatic drop in demand for rail travel this week and train operators have also had to deal with staff self-isolating in response to the Covid-19 bug.

EMR managing director Will Rogers said: “This is an unprecedented global issue and it is important the railway continues to play its vital role in helping key workers continue to travel safely and reliably.

"As a vital artery for Britain, the railway is crucial to ensuring that key workers like nurses, police officers and firefighters can get to work.

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“Our reduced timetable reflects the significant reduction in demand and reduces the requirements on front line staff but, in partnership with neighbouring operators, does maintain rail services for all of the stations we serve and provides a reliable and carefully planned service.

“I would also like to recognise the extraordinary hard work and dedication of everyone here at EMR, who alongside many other front line workers, are working around the clock to keep the country moving during these challenging times.”

EMR's emergency timetable is part of a national deal between the rail industry and the Government to reflect reduced demand and ensure vital train services for key workers can continue to run throughout a prolonged coronavirus outbreak.

The reduced service will remain in place until further notice and will be kept under constant review to ensure it matches demands of passengers who still need to travel

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Thameslink services between Bedford and London and trains through Northampton are also being cut back from Monday as part of a national effort in response to the Government advice to avoid all non-essential travel in a bid to slow the spread of the Covid-19 bug.

Timetables will be available on the EMR website but customers are urged to check National Rail Enquiries journey planner for up to date information.