County commuter train services are being ramped up as local people plan to return to school and work after the summer break next week.

Trains between Hereford and Birmingham will be doubled to two trains each hour adding capacity to a route that has historically been very crowded.

Train services were dramatically reduced with the onset of lockdown but rail operators are now planning for increased demand as more people return to their places of work and schools return for the new academic year.

The news was welcomed by West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin who has consistently called for improved rail services and extra capacity on the commuter lines in and out of the second city.

Harriett said: “I have been briefed on the planned timetable changes and I welcome West Midland Trains’ plans to add capacity as more people return to work.

“It is essential that we get people back to work and into their normal routines but I can imagine some people will still be nervous about using public transport where social distancing is still in place and face coverings are mandated.

“These steps will form an important part of the plan to get people back into work as we aim to kick start the economy.

“Inevitably the advice remains that you should cycle or walk to work where you can or use private transport, but this extra capacity will mean that people who have to travel by train, can do so a little more confidently.”