Lancashire passengers set to get new Northern timetable this month

It will mean more services in many areas and extending operating hours in others.

The train operator said it did not represent a return to pre-COVID service levels, but reflected the challenges faced and the changing demands of customers, many of whom were returning to work and schools for the first time in months.

Chris Jackson, regional director at Northern, said: “The coronavirus pandemic has had a significant impact on society and the railway has not been immune from that.

“We are doing all we can to continue to provide the best possible service for customers across the network. Many members of staff have been shielding and the knock-on effects of the virus will be felt for many months.”

some routes will not see any enhancements as part of the new timetables and, on a handful of routes there will be a reduction in services.

He added: “We have to balance the demand for services with other factors, such as driver and conductor training, which have been paused for six months during the pandemic because of social distancing restrictions.

“We have brought in as many additional services as possible with the resource we have available and have prioritised routes and times where there is the most significant demand.

“Of course, all routes are important to us and we keenly understand the role we play in providing mobility for the communities we serve. As such we will do all we can to reintroduce further services when it is possible and appropriate to do so.”

Details can be found via the Northern website or at National Rail Enquiries at https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/