Warning over Cup final train travel

Liverpool fans making their way to the FA Cup final on May 5 are likely to be blighted by engineering works on the railways, it has been revealed.

Only three Virgin Trains services are running between Liverpool and the capital on the big day as Network Rail has already pencilled in bank holiday work.

Liverpool fans have been urged to look into travelling via Manchester or Chester, but it's likely some may just decide to drive instead. However, those opting to get to the final on four wheels are advised to make sure their breakdown cover is up to date to prevent any unforeseen circumstances keeping them from cheering on their boys.

Because the game has been scheduled for a teatime kick-off it also means there will be no trains back to Liverpool after the full-time whistle is blown, pointing to an overnight stay for supporters travelling by rail.

A Virgin Trains spokesman said: "We always try and help football fans get to and from matches but on this occasion, as we explained to the FA, the choice of both a 5.15pm kick off and the staging of the FA Cup Final on a Bank Holiday weekend when Network Rail had already planned essential route improvement works means we cannot offer fans the level of train service they have come to expect."

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