Lincolnshire freight network vital to coronavirus fight, says Network Rail

Reduced passenger services has allowed Lincolnshire's rail network to carry more than 150,000 tonnes of food, medical supplies and other goods around the county, according to Network Rail.

The transport body also assured key workers in the NHS, food industry, education and communications sectors that "a reliable service would remain in operation to get them to work" as freight trains continue to run and help meet demand across the county.

Rail operators are running an emergency passenger timetable so that only essential journeys can be made.

Kevin Newman, senior route freight manager for Network Rail, said: "The railway plays a crucial part in keeping Britain running, particularly in these challenging times.

"Our teams are working hard to keep lines open for key workers, as well as enabling vital freight services to run to keep shelves stocked, deliver vital medical equipment and to keep power stations going.

"We have been able to meet the demand thanks to the dedication of our key workers at Network Rail who have continued to keep services moving, and with the help of passengers who have followed government advice to only travel when it is essential.

"We are continuing to work closely with the Government and transport partners to keep the railways open and keep Britain moving."

Meanwhile, a statement on EMR's website said: "The safety and wellbeing of our colleagues and customers is always our number one priority.

"We are continuing to closely follow official advice from the Government and ask our customers to do the same."

"That means you should only travel if it is absolutely essential which is limited to getting urgent supplies, such as food or medicine, supporting older or vulnerable people, or travelling to and from work if you are an identified key worker.

"No one else should be travelling at this time, ensuring that vital train services for key workers can continue to run throughout a prolonged coronavirus outbreak."