'Deep concern' over cuts to Euston trains from N.Wales

WELSH Transport Secretary Ken Skates has expressed “deep concern” over two timetable reductions affecting North Wales and border rail services.

- By ANDREW FORGRAVE

He hit out at a decision taken by the rail regulator to cut Avanti direct rail services between Chester and London Euston. The Holyhead to Euston Sunday service is also being scaled back.

The moves were outlined by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) as part of its December timetable update.

It comes after the ORR faced a public backlash over its decision to run the Avanti West Coast service from Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston without passengers. The regulator reversed its “ghost train” plan within 24 hours after listening to feedback.

In a letter to the ORR’s chief executive, Mr Skates said the reduced services from Holyhead and Chester would be “very disappointing for passengers in North Wales. Tourism in the region could be adversely affected, he added.