Passengers travelling on the West Coast main line and North West rail routes are being advised to check before they travel ahead of important railway upgrades over the early May bank holiday.

Network Rail is carrying out major projects between Saturday, May 4 and Monday, May 6 to improve the region’s railway for passengers and freight.

The planned work includes track maintenance and signalling work in Carlisle.

For the work to take place, there will be changes to rail services. Some trains will use diversionary routes, some will not run at all. Rail replacement buses will be in operation.

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Phil James, Network Rail’s North West route director, said: “We made great progress on major railway improvements over Easter and I’d like to thank passengers for their continued patience while we carry out more must-do work 

"We know there is never an ideal time to shut the railway, but bank holidays continue to be the least disruptive time for us to carry out this essential maintenance."