Rail strikes confirmed for Christmas period

By Claudia Lee

Strike action by rail unions will lead to severe disruption across the rail network during five strikes in December.

The strikes are set to take place on December 13, 14, 16, 17 and between December 24 and 27.

On strike days some lines will not operate at all and there will be no replacement bus services available.

A limited service will operate on busier routes across the South with later starts and earlier finishes.

Trains will also start later after the strikes, after 7am.

Difficulties are expected on Christmas Eve and December 27, passengers will need to check nearer the time to see what services will be available.

In addition, services across the country will be subject to short notice cancellations between December 13 and January 2 due to an overtime ban by RMT members.

Passengers still needing to travel should check  nationalrail.co.uk ahead of time so they know what to expect.

Passengers can also check with their individual train operators through: Gatwick Express, Southeastern Railway, Southern, South Western Railway, ThamesLink.

Pictured top: Clapham Junction railway station (Picture: Darren Pepe)