The biggest rail strike in 30 years is set to start this week, causing misery for millions of travellers.
The strikes, which affect Network Rail and train operators, are due to take place tomorrow, Thursday and Saturday – and people are urged not to travel on trains unless necessary.
Last ditch talks are taking place between rail bosses and unions are being held in an effort to avert the industrial action, but have so far yet to find a resolution.
Members of the Rail Maritime and Transport Workers union said its members were walking out over pay cuts, conditions and pensions.
It is seeking a pay rise of at least seven per cent in line with the cost of living.
Its members include guards, catering staff, maintenance staff and signallers.
Train drivers are represented by a separate union.
What will happen this week?
The Rail Delivery Group, which represents train companies, said some services will start to wind down earlier than normal this evening. Customers are urged to check with their train operator directly.
It is thought only 20 per cent of services will run on strike days and there will be a knock-on effect on non-strike days too, with reduced services running.
The AA is warning drivers that the roads will be busier as people take to the roads.
What lines are affected?
Disruption is planned for 13 major lines across England, Scotland and Wales.
These include Northern, Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express, which run services in Cumbria.
Tomorrow, around 50,000 workers from Network Rail will also be on strike.
ScotRail said 90 per cent of its trains will be cancelled during the strike action.
What will happen if no deal is reached?
The RMT has said it will continue to take strike action until it reaches an agreement.
How can I travel during the strike?
Northern
The firm is advising all customers not to travel at all between tomorrow and Sunday. it is not providing alternative transport.
For more information or to apply for a refund, click here.
TransPennine Express
The operator is asking customers to plan carefully and only travel if it is essential. It said people planning to travel on strike days should check for updates up to the last minute as services are likely to be subject to short notice changes.
It will look to provide a replacement bus service where it can.
For more information, click here.
Avanti West Coast
The firm is providing a limited timetable – with fewer trains and some stations having no service at all.
One train an hour will run between Euston to Preston, with a limited service to Glasgow. The trains will start at 8am and the last train will depart form Euston mid-afternoon.
It has suspended sales of tickets on strike days for the days after the industrial action.
The revised timetables are available to view and download here.
