Train reliability dips sharply in northern England despite reduced service

TransPennine and Northern trains outside Manchester Piccadilly. Both companies culled more than 15% of their timetables. Photograph: Christopher Thomond/The Guardian

Cancellations and punctuality for train companies operating in northern England including Avanti West Coast worsened sharply this summer, despite them scheduling far fewer train services, statistics from the rail regulator reveal.

A review of passenger train operators’ performance by the Office of Rail and Road showed that TransPennine Express and Northern both culled more than 15% of their timetable from the previous summer, far more than any other operators in the UK.