Trains cancelled across Scotland as ScotRail warns of 'driver shortage'

ScotRail has warned a number of train services will be cancelled on Sunday due to driver shortages across its network.

Numerous services between Glasgow Central and Edinburgh Waverley throughout the day have been cancelled with a number of other lines affected.

Services to Gourock, Lanark, Neilston, Kilmarnock and Ayr are among the cancellations with eight journeys cancelled on the Larkhall to Balloch line.

The operator said where possible services will be replaced by bus journeys but are urging commuters to check their journey before heading out.

Celtic and Rangers square off in the Premier Sports Cup final at 3.30pm on Sunday, while ScotRail said trains will be busy with Christmas shoppers.

On Saturday, ScotRail said in a statement on social media said: “Unfortunately, due to the availability of drivers on Sunday, there are a number of cancellations to services.

“This is a particularly challenging weekend, and with the Christmas period fast approaching, more drivers than normal are unavailable for rest day working.

“Where possible replacement buses for some of the cancelled services are being arranged, and there will be ticket acceptance in place where possible.

“Please check your journey on our app before you head out for the latest service information.

“We’re currently recruiting 160 drivers each year, the most of any UK operator, which will help to reduce the type of challenges we’re currently facing.”

ScotRail service delivery director, Mark Ilderton, said: “We are sorry to customers for the cancellations to services today, which have been necessary due to a shortage of available drivers.

“We know how inconvenient this is to people travelling, and we are doing everything we can to make sure they can complete their journey.”

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