A RAIL firm, which operates between Sunderland, Teesside and London, has confirmed it will suspend all of its services until March at the earliest.

Grand Central has said all of its services will be suspended following the introduction of the third national lockdown.

It said rail services would be cancelled beyond Saturday, January 9 and not resume until March 1.

In a statement, the company said: "Following Monday's announcement of a national lockdown we've decided to temporarily suspend GC services from Jan 9 until March 1.

"We’re still open for reservations into March, and service updates at grandcentralrail.com. Stay safe everyone."

'Hugely disappointing'

A Grand Central spokesman said: “It’s hugely disappointing for us to be starting 2021 by removing our trains from the communities they serve.

"However, even before Monday’s Government announcement of a total lockdown, the impact of tightening tier restrictions and ongoing engineering work on the East Coast Main Line had caused a major drop in passenger demand for January and February.

“As an Open Access operator, relying exclusively on income from ticket sales, it’s clear we would best serve the needs of our business and our staff and passengers, by taking a period of hibernation.

"We are currently planning to return on March 1st and our services will remain open for bookings to travel from that date.

"Meanwhile we will continually monitor the national situation and provide updates through our usual communication channels. We may return sooner if the lifting of restrictions allows.”

The spokesperson added: “Following discussions with rail unions, our crew and some of our support staff will be switched onto the Government furlough scheme during this hibernation period.

"Once again we thank our staff for their understanding, professionalism and commitment following this difficult but necessary decision.

“Grand Central will be back, until then please follow Government advice and stay safe.”