TPE Class 802s at Newcastle

TransPennine Express warns of likely disruption ahead of industrial action

TransPennine Express is warning its customers to prepare for disruption as a result of further national industrial action by drivers’ union ASLEF.

The train operator is calling on customers to be prepared for delays and short-notice cancellations as union members take part in almost a fortnight of action short of a strike.

Kathryn O’Brien, Customer Service and Operations Director at TPE, said: “We are disappointed that this action will have such an impact on our customers’ journeys.

“We are anticipating significant disruption to our services for the next two weeks and I’m asking all our customers to be prepared for delays and cancellations across the network.”

Similar industrial action has seen large numbers of services cancelled the night before and on-the-day, and TransPennine Express hopes the early warning will give customers time to seek alternative methods of transport for their journeys.

Kathryn added: “We expect the disruption to be widespread and I would advise customers to check very carefully before they travel and to allow extra time for any journeys.

“We will publish all the information regarding cancellations as soon as possible on our website, via JourneyCheck, and details will also be available on the National Rail Enquiries website.

“In cases where journeys are absolutely essential, I would encourage customers to seek alternative means of transport.

“We’re extremely sorry for the impact this action will have for our customers and will do all we can to keep as many people on the move as possible.”

Anyone making an essential journey with TPE is advised to check their train before they travel via the TPE website or National Rail Enquiries.