Train staff on Merseyside have begun a 24-hour strike in protest at plans to introduce driver-only operated trains (DOO).
Many routes across the region are set to be disrupted as part of the walkout after transport union the RMT’s ballot saw rail guards voted overwhelmingly in favour.
Merseyrail are set to introduce the DOO trains from 2020, which will see over 200 positions made surplus to requirements on the regional rail network.
The company failed to block the industrial action with a last-ditch High Court bid, arguing that the RMT’s dispute lay with their owners Merseytravel.
A reduced service is expected to take place throughout Monday with Merseyrail forced to halt trains between 11am and 2pm.
“We are sorry that we are unable to run the previously advertised timetable today,” read a statement.
“This is because train drivers, who are not part of the industrial action taking place on the Merseyrail network today, have decided not to cross RMT picket lines.
“There will be no trains running on the Ellesmere Port, Kirkby and Hunts Cross lines.”