Railway strike continues in Devon

Great Western Railway, along with other train operators, is set to face significant disruptions this Saturday, April 6, due to strike action announced by the Aslef union.

As a result, a reduced and revised timetable will be in place across several train operators, including GWR.

The strike action will lead to the cessation of long-distance services, direct trains connecting London Paddington and Reading, and services on various other routes within the GWR network.

A limited service will only be available during specific hours of the day, from 0700 to around 1900, on select routes such as Exeter St Davids and Plymouth and Gunnislake, among others.

Furthermore, due to ongoing engineering works, there will be no GWR trains operating between London Paddington and Reading. The strike action is also anticipated to affect other operators, exacerbating the disruption.

In addition to the strike action scheduled for Saturday, further disruptions are expected from Thursday, April 4, to Saturday, April 6, and from Monday, April 8, to Tuesday, April 9.

Passengers are advised to anticipate short-notice alterations and cancellations, particularly during weekends or late-night journeys.

The industrial action is part of a rolling programme affecting various rail operators during these dates, potentially impacting onward travel plans.

Following the strikes, services may continue to experience limited short-notice cancellations and alterations.

To mitigate inconvenience, GWR has announced that tickets purchased for strike days will be valid for travel on alternative days, extending from Friday, April 5, to Monday, April 8, and even up to and including Wednesday, April 10.

Passengers who opt not to travel can claim full refunds or amend their tickets accordingly. Moreover, those experiencing delays of 15 minutes or more may be entitled to Delay Repay compensation.

However, with the limited services expected to be in high demand, passengers are advised to check both outward and return journeys before traveling.

Bus replacement services will not be available during the disruptions.