THE coach operator National Express has confirmed the return of more services once the national lockdown ends next week.

The firm, which operates services from the North-East and North Yorkshire to destinations across the UK, confirmed services would increase beyond December 2.

National Express is currently operating an extremely limited service - with the majority services tending to operate between major cities, towns and airports.

But the firm has today said it will be ramping up services as they expect demand to grow as Covid restrictions are gradually eased.

Chris Hardy, managing director of National Express UK Coach: “This is still very much a limited network, equivalent to around 20 per cent of our normal services, with a focus on major cities, towns and airports.

"However, as England moves into regional tiers; students are encouraged to make their way home during the designated travel window and guidance is released about what we can do over Christmas; we expect demand for travel in December to grow.

“We are increasing our services in early December and then again later in the month as we get closer to Christmas.

"All decisions are being made in consultation with the DfT regarding the requirement for a national coach network to keep the country moving safely”

Capacity has been increased on routes that serve University locations during the student travel window between December 3 and 9 and is understood to be the only national public transport network operating on Christmas Day.

Mr Hardy added: “There is less demand for coach travel but there is still a need.

"Trains will not be running on Christmas Day and planned engineering works on the railways will also reduce options. 

“The flexibility of coach travel means we have the ability to safely increase capacity in line with demand and any Government guidance.”

The firm's coaches have covid-secure measures in place including enhanced cleaning, reduced capacity, wearing of face coverings, temperature screening and additional air conditioning filters.

Those who have tested positive for Covid and are unable to travel as a result can request a full refund or amend their ticket.

Passengers who no longer wish to or are unable to travel as planned are also eligible for a free ticket amendment.