West Midlands Railway urges customers to avoid the train when planning reunions

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Friday, 29 May 2020

West Midlands Railway urges customers to avoid the train when planning reunions

West Midlands Railway is urging family and friends arranging post-lockdown reunions to avoid the train to keep space free for people making the most essential journeys.

With outdoor gatherings of up to six people permitted in England from Monday, transport officials are anticipating an increase in short and medium-distance journeys.

However, with trains still operating at significantly reduced capacity due to social distancing restrictions, West Midlands Railway is urging customers to walk, cycle or drive if they are heading to a reunion.

Jonny Wiseman, head of customer experience for West Midlands Railway, said:

“We know many of our customers will be looking forward to catching up with family and friends they have not seen in a long time when the rules change next week.

“With social distancing advice still in place, we are urging customers to avoid the train for all but the most essential journeys where no other means of travel is available.

“If you choose to take the train for a non-essential journey you risk taking the space of a front-line worker who needs it more.”

The operator is also urging passengers who do need to use the train to wear a face covering while on board, avoid peak times and buy tickets online.

For the latest travel advice, visit www.wmr.uk/coronavirus or follow @WestMidRailway on Twitter.

About West Midlands Trains

For further information on this release, call our press office on 03300 955150 or email [email protected]

West Midlands Trains operates both West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern Railway services.

  • London Northwestern Railway services operate between Liverpool and Birmingham, and on the West Coast mainline to and from London Euston.
  • West Midlands Railway services operate to destinations across the West Midlands via Birmingham New Street.

For more information on these services visit westmidlandsrailway.co.uk or londonnorthwesternrailway.co.uk

The West Midlands Trains franchise started on 10 December 2017 and will run until 2025/26.

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