Northern set to run more trains in Lancashire from Monday including to Manchester airport

Northern is boosting services between Blackpool and Manchester Airport as the country moves further out lockdown.

Service levels have gradually increased during the past few months and July 20 will see additional trains operating between the Lancashire resort and the airport.

There will also be increases between Preston and Blackpool South – and one additional train each way in the morning between Preston and Ormskirk.

Chris Jackson, regional director at Northern, said: “We know this year has been difficult for our customers, with amended timetables in place since the end of March.

“We have brought in more services were possible during May and June and now, at the end of July, we are able to add more between two of the most popular destinations on our network.

“We are still not at a full timetable though, and, with social distancing still in place, space on our trains is limited. Customers, therefore, need to plan journeys carefully, avoid travelling at peak times where possible and, of course, wear a face covering (unless they are exempt) when on our trains.”

To help give rail travellers more confidence when travelling on the railway, Northern has recently outlined the measures it is taking to keep trains and stations as clean and safe as possible.

These measures include, more cleaning staff than ever before, a clear focus on cleaning touchpoints (handles, buttons and tables etc), the use of new cleaning products that protect surfaces for up to 40 days, and an enhanced cleaning regime for all trains and stations.

Chris added: “We want to make sure customers who travel with us can do so with the confidence that the Northern network is as safe as possible.

“Those who are returning to the railway can help by making sure they wash their hands regularly, adhere to social distancing, and take any litter with them when they leave our trains.

“Customers should also make themselves fully aware of the updated timetables and plan journeys well in advance – allowing extra time for travel where possible.”

For full details of timetables visit the Northern website or check National Rail Enquiries.