GWR introduces temporary timetable in response to staff shortages due to Covid

Great Western Railway is introducing a temporary reduced timetable in response to higher than usual levels of staff being absent or self-isolating due to Covid.

The temporary timetable comes into place from tomorrow, Saturday, January 8, and will run for a week.

In a statement GWR said: "The temporary timetable will be updated on a weekly basis and is only expected to be in operation for a short time - until the impact of the Omicron variant has reduced.

"Online journey planners have been updated to reflect planned cancellations until 14 January 2022, and will continue to be updated weekly, for future travel dates."

The reduced temporary timetable is in operation because of higher than usual levels of staff being absent or self-isolating due to Covid.

By reducing the timetable GWR said that it can ensure that it can provide the majority of the usual, planned trains, and drastically reduce the number of short notice cancellations.

If it is necessary to change your journey plans, the Book with Confidence scheme has been extended until the end of March so that you can change your travel plans up to the evening before departure without being charged a fee, or if you choose not to travel are able to receive a refund on your unused ticket.

GWR added: "If you are travelling by train, please check your journey before you leave home, for the most up to date information. If your train is cancelled, you will be able to travel on a service immediately before or after your booked train.

"Customers who choose not to travel can claim a full refund. Please visit gwr.com/refunds for more information."

A summary list of the amended services can be found here.