Northern has issued ‘Essential Travel Only’ guidance to rail users planning to travel on its services in the North West tomorrow (Tuesday 19 July).

Given the expected high temperatures and weather warnings issued by government, the train operator is urging customers to stay indoors and keep cool.

Chris Jackson, regional director for Northern, said: “Whilst this isn’t a ‘Do Not Travel’ notice – which we have in place across some parts of our network tomorrow – given the guidance published by government and expected disruption caused by extreme temperatures, we would advise customers only to travel if they really have to.

“There will be blanket speed reductions in place and a limited timetable in operation throughout the region.”

Northern’s announcement follows Network Rail’s decision to close the East Coast Main Line (ECML) between 12pm and 8pm tomorrow for all locations between London King’s Cross and York and Leeds due to the extreme weather.

Northern’s tips for travelling in the heat:

• Carry a bottle of water with you to keep hydrated
• If waiting at a station, try and find a safe spot in the shade
• If you do have to go into the sun, apply some suncream and wear a hat
• If you start to feel ill; do not board the train, speak to a member of staff or use the help point at the station

For more information, please visit: northernrailway.co.uk/service-updates/check-before-you-travel

Northern is the second largest train operator in the UK with nearly 2,000 services a day to more than 500 stations across the North of England.