UK train operators cut hundreds of services owing to staff shortage

Greatly reduced timetables introduced in response to weeks of pandemic-related absences

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Hundreds of daily train services are being removed from timetables in an attempt to improve reliability after weeks of cancellations at short notice, according to rail firms.

At least eight train operators have either already reduced frequencies on many routes or will do so in the coming days in response to pandemic-related staff shortages. Passengers travelling on New Year's Eve also face major disruption because of industrial action.