A train operator in Cumbria has issued travel advice ahead of upcoming strike actions which will significantly disrupt services.

Avanti West Coast is telling customers not to travel on May 12 because it can’t run any trains while ASLEF workers strike.

Avanti said customers should claim a refund, seek alternative transport, or rearrange journeys for another date.

Rail travel options will be extremely limited on the West Coast Main Line between London, Scotland, and North Wales.

Rail replacement services will not be in place on May 12.

On May 13, customers are strongly advised to check before they travel because a reduced timetable will be run in response to the RMT workers striking.

Avanti West Coast will run one train per hour between London Euston to Manchester, and Preston, with a limited number extended to Carlisle, as part of its contingency plans for Saturday’s RMT strike action.

Due to major upgrade work by Network Rail near Carstairs, there will be no direct trains to Scotland.

Journeys to Glasgow and Edinburgh will involve a change at Carlisle, where connections into rail replacement services, as well as a limited rail service operated by ScotRail, will be available.

Customers with tickets for May 12 and 13 (purchased before April 27) can claim a full fee-free refund from their point of purchase.

Alternatively, tickets dated May 12 and 13 can be used from May 11 up to and including May 16.