Significant disruption is expected to CrossCountry rail services this week - with no trains running at all on May 8 due to a planned strike.

The disruption is expected between today (May 6) and May 11.

In light of industrial action on May 8, services the following day are likely to be unusually busy.

Tickets for CrossCountry journeys purchased before April 22 for journeys between May 7 and May 9 can now be used on any day between May 6 and May 13.

Customers are being advised against all but essential travel.

Steve Hopkinson, CrossCountry's Service Delivery Director, said: "We’re sorry to customers impacted by this latest round of industrial action.

"While we're working hard to run as many services as possible over these days, there is likely to be significant disruption for people planning to travel – especially on May 9.

"I'd ask those planning to travel to check their journey in advance, as well as on the day.

"Customers can visit the CrossCountry website or National Rail Enquiries for the latest travel information."