Train operators in Lancashire have warned the public to expect delays and cancellations this week, as ASLEF union members hold industrial action.

Union members at several train companies, including Northern and Transpennine Express which operate in Lancashire, will refuse to work overtime from today (July 3) to Saturday (July 8).

More industrial action has also been planned from July 17 to July 22, in the union’s ongoing national dispute over pay.

Northern and the Transpennine Express have warned the public to expect delays and cancellations today and are advising the public to check the train timetable before they travel.

The withdrawal of non-contractual overtime will be in place from 12.01am on Monday, July 17, until 11.59pm on Saturday, July 22, at: Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Greater Anglia, Great Western Railway, GTR Great Northern - Thameslink, Island Line, London North East Railway, Northern, Southeastern, Southern and Gatwick Express, South Western Railway, Transpennine Express and West Midlands Trains.

A spokesperson for Northern said: “Industrial action takes place this week by ASLEF union driver members, meaning there will be some short notice cancellations, later start and earlier last service each day.

“Our advice is to check as close to your time of travel as possible using the app or website.”

A spokesperson for TransPennine Express said: “We're aware of planned strike action by the RMT union on July 20, 22 and 29.

“There is also ASLEF action short of strike planned between Monday, July 3, and Saturday 8, which will affect some services.

“Some journeys may be altered late or on the day of travel. Please check your journey in advance.”

General secretary for the ASLEF, Mick Whelan, said:“Train drivers don’t want to be inconveniencing the public. We want to resolve this dispute.

“We have given the government and rail operators plenty of opportunities to come to the table but it remains clear that they do not want a resolution.

“Our members - the drivers who keep the railway running day in, day out - will not accept the government’s attempts to force our industry into decline.

"Rail travel is a vital part of the fight against climate change. Rail connectivity is essential to the country’s economy.

“It’s time for a fair deal and a resolution so we can grow our railway and improve it for the future.”