Rail passengers are being warned ahead of the weekend of the disruption that they may face when trying to complete their journeys due to industrial action. 

Govia Thameslink Railway says for those planning to travel via rail tomorrow (Friday, September 1) that there will be no trains on virtually all Southern, Thameslink and Great Northern routes owing to industrial action by the ASLEF union. 

On Saturday, September 2, a strike by RMT and an ASLEF overtime ban means services will be limited across the network, with first trains later and last trains much earlier than normal, and no service in some locations. 

Passengers should expect longer waiting times and busier trains, and queuing systems may be in place at stations. 

First and last trains will be particularly busy. There will be no alternative transport available after the last trains have departed. 

Services before 9am on Sunday, September 3, will be subject to delays or cancellations as a result of the industrial action on Saturday. 

GTR’s customer service director, Jenny Saunders, said: “We're really sorry for the inconvenience this industrial action is causing to our customers.  

“If trains are running on your route, they are likely to be busier than normal, with longer waiting times.  

“First and last trains will be particularly busy, so please travel later and return earlier if you can.” 

She added: “Please plan all your journeys carefully in advance, and check again before you set off.  

“We strongly advise you to make sure you know the times of your last trains – including any connections – to make sure you can get home before services finish.”  

Details are available at the Southern, Thameslink, Great Northern and Gatwick Express websites. 

Train times are available now in online journey planners such as National Rail Enquiries.