A MAJOR train provider will reinstate dozens of services that were slashed over Omicron fears.

South Western Railway (SWR) has said the move comes as improving staff availability means it can increase the number of trains it runs without compromising reliability for customers.

The uplift is timely as more people return to the railway following the government’s work from home instruction being lifted.

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Earlier this year, SWR was forced to introduce a temporary timetable in response to staff absences caused by the spread of Omicron. SWR says that this timetable has ensured reliability for customers during a challenging period, with SWR adding additional services as staff availability improved.

From Monday, February 21, services will “return to pre-Omicron levels”.

SWR managing director Claire Mann said: “It has been a difficult period for our railway and the customers it serves, with significant staff shortages giving us no choice but to temporarily reduce our timetable last month.

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“With staff availability now consistently improving, we are pleased to be able to announce this uplift, which will essentially see service levels return to where they were prior to the spread of Omicron.”

For more information, visit: www.southwesternrailway.com/plan-my-journey/timetables.

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