GWR: 99% of rail services return from next week

GREAT Western Railway said it expects to run 99% of its planned timetable from Monday following a week of severe disruption due to cracks on trains.

The firm’s long-distance services between Penzance and Paddington have been severely hampered since May 8 when cracks were discovered in part of the chassis of several Hitachi-built Class 800 trains.

The rail industry decided on Thursday that the fault does not pose a safety risk, so trains are returning to service following rigorous checks. GWR will use its Class 800 trains as well as rolling stock brought in from other areas.