Merseyrail has announced changes to its timetable because the impact of the Omicron COVID-19 variant has led to an increase in staff absences.

Between 10 and 16 January, there will be pre-planned cancellations in place on the Merseyrail network. Further information on these can be found here: https://www.merseyrail.org/plan-your-journey/train-cancellations.aspx.

From 17 January until further notice, services on all lines on the Merseyrail network will change to a 30-minute service. The company hopes that by making these there will be no need to make last-minute cancellations, and passengers will have ample time to adjust their travel plans where needed.

Andy Heath, Managing Director at Merseyrail, said: “Our staff have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to ensure that we can provide a safe and reliable service to the people of the Liverpool City Region.

“However, as is the case on other parts of the UK rail network, the Omicron variant has significantly increased the number of front-line staff being absent from work. This means that we need to reduce the number of trains we run to ensure that our services remain reliable.

“I would advise all customers to check our website and social media feeds before they travel, and we will continue to work hard to provide the best service that we can.”

Merseyrail customers are reminded that the wearing of face coverings on public transport is mandatory unless they are exempt.