Train passengers have been issued fresh warnings to ahead of the Easter bank holiday weekend.
Train operators British Transport Police, TransPennine Express and Northern have joined forces to remind people it is not acceptable to use the trains for leisure activities and should be used for essential journeys only.
It follows strict Government guidelines to help slow down the spread of coronavirus (Covid-19).
The train companies have also introduced amended timetables to help key workers make the necessary essential journeys.
A spokesperson from Northern said: “Our amended timetables are designed to provide support for those who have to make essential journeys. At the moment, our services should not be used for leisure travel and those doing so are putting themselves and others at risk.
“We are working hard to keep the railway running which, in turn, is helping key workers provide the valuable services we all rely on. We now need our passengers to follow government guidance and, where possible, stay at home.”
⚠️An amended timetable is now in place to keep the country’s key workers on the move
🚉Plan your journey👉 https://t.co/RzYinOOsBf
❗️Please only travel if absolutely necessary
🦠If you have symptoms of #coronavirus do not travel
ℹ️More info👉 https://t.co/mqxoxFCqx1#COVID19 pic.twitter.com/5zwByQF0fn
— Northern (@northernassist) April 8, 2020
But last weekend, with the arrival of good weather, passenger numbers in some areas rose dramatically as some people ignored the advice and headed for the coast and beauty spots.
Superintendent Glen Alderson, of British Transport Police, said: “This Easter weekend our officers will be carrying out the role they do every day, which is saving lives.
“We will have a deployment of officers patrolling stations across the rail network, supporting staff and reminding the public of the urgent need to follow the government advice, including an increased presence at stations popular with leisure travel – only those making essential journeys should be using the rail network.
“Millions of people have been playing their part in protecting the NHS and their loved ones by not using rail services. I urge the public to keep doing the right thing and help us save lives by staying at home and slowing the spread of the virus.”