East Midlands Railway's (EMR) services will be significantly reduced on Saturday 26 August and Saturday 2 September due to industrial action by members of the RMT union.

Many of its routes will be reduced to one train an hour and will only run between 6:30am and 6:30pm - with the last departures starting between 3pm and 4:30pm.

Customers are being advised to travel by rail only if absolutely necessary, while Oakham Station will be closed completely and no bus rail replacement services will be provided. Local travellers should also be aware that strike action will affect other routes across the country, with very limited services running across the whole rail network.

If a customer's train is cancelled or delayed or they choose not to travel due to strike action, tickets can be changed to another date, or they can be returned for a full refund at their point of purchase. No administration fee will be charged.

Will Rogers, Managing Director for East Midlands Railway, said: "We will be significantly reducing our services on Saturday 26 August and Saturday 2 September due to industrial action by members of the RMT union.

"It is recommended that customers also check the departure time of their last train before embarking on their journey and familiarise themselves with the overall impact of the strike on their entire route.

"Customers should also be aware that on Sunday 27 August, our Intercity and Connect services are also likely to be very busy due engineering works on the East Coast Mainline.

"For detailed guidance and daily travel updates, please visit our website."

Alicia Kearns is campaigning to get a ticket machine installed at Oakham Station. Image credit: Alicia Kearns.

This comes as the MP for Melton and Rutland launches her campaign to install a ticket machine at Oakham train station. 

Following the closure of almost all of England's rail ticket offices earlier this year, the Conservative MP is launching a campaign for a new ticket machine at Oakham station. 

Ms Kearns is calling for residents to add their name to her online petition, which will be presented to East Midlands Railway. 

Oakham is Rutland's only train station, so the local MP, as well as Rutland residents, consider the removal of the ticket office and further strike action distressing.

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