Date: 26 Sep 2008 17:01
FIRST PUBLISHED 26 SEP 08
We would like to advise passengers that there will be minor timetable changes from Sunday, 5th October when our leaf fall timetable being introduced.
All trains on the London Marylebone to Birmingham line will have an extra three minutes added to their termination time. This means that trains will arrive at their destination up to three minutes later than before.
All trains on the Aylesbury and London Marylebone via Amersham line will have three minutes added to their departure time: trains will leave Aylesbury three minutes earlier than before.
We need this extra time because autumn leaf fall means that our trains cannot go as fast as normal. Leaves are blown onto the rails by passing trains; rain and the pressure of heavy trains going over them then creates a hard surface on the rails, which not only lessens the wheels grip to the tracks but is very difficult to remove. It is so slippery, our drivers compare it to black ice.
Changing our timetable means drivers have a much better chance of keeping to time so that services can run smoothly and without disruption, as our 95% punctuality rate means you can be sure of arriving on time.
The amended leaf fall timetable will remain in place until 13th December.
