The changes will see the return of services between Manchester and Scotlands travelling via the West Coast Mainline as well as an extension of Cleethorpes to Manchester services to Liverpool Lime Street travelling via Warrington and Liverpool South Parkway.

Kathryn O’Brien, Customer Service and Operations Director at TransPennine Express said: “Our new timetables are designed to give our customers improved connectivity across the North and into Scotland.

“The changes mean we have had to make some adjustments to existing services and we need all customers to make themselves familiar with the timetables and to check carefully before travelling.”

The rail operator’s new timetables will be affected by engineering work later in December which will be ongoing through the Christmas Period, with advice to those planning train journeys during this time to take extra care.

Kathryn added “We’ve worked closely with Network Rail and other train operators to ensure we can keep as many customers moving as possible during the works. We know many people rely on our services to see friends and family at this time of year, however, there will be disruption to many of our usual services.

“I urge anyone planning on using our services between 27 December and 2 January to check journeys very carefully ahead of time, and to allow plenty of extra time if travelling.”

To find out more about TransPennine Express’s new timetables and the possible effects of engineering work through December please visit here: https://www.tpexpress.co.uk/travel-updates/timetable-changes-this-winter