Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) has partnered with bus, train and tram operators to ensure the region keeps moving with a safe transport network over the festive season.

But there will be changes to services across the Christmas and New Year period so those, such as key workers, who still need to travel are being advised to check timetables and plan ahead.

Safety is a top priority for public transport operators and there is extensive cleaning and social distancing measures in place. Everyone should be wearing a face covering on board and at stations and stops unless you are exempt.

Anne Shaw, director of Network Resilience for TfWM said: “Although many of us will be at home, off school or off work, there are many, including our key and emergency workers, who still need to use public transport over the festive season.

“So we have worked with our bus and tram operators to ensure that there are services running every day except Christmas Day for those who need them.

“But we would ask people to check timetables, plan their journeys in advance and allow plenty of time as services will be reduced – especially on bank holidays.

“We have all the information on services at West Midlands Network.co.uk where you can keep up to date with any disruption and the latest rules on social distancing.

“And, unless exempt, remember to wear a face covering for your whole journey.”

The West Midlands remains under tier 3 restrictions. Travel to work, education and to do essential shopping is allowed and public transport will remain operating safely to support those who need it.

As usual there will be no public transport services running on Christmas Day and the railways will remain closed on Boxing Day.

The region’s largest bus operator National Express will be running 155 services with a Sunday timetable on Boxing Day, while Diamond Buses are running 19 services. This is thanks in part to a subsidy from TfWM. Some services will stop early at about 7pm.

West Midlands Metro will also be operating a Sunday timetable on Boxing Day.

For full details on services over Christmas and New Year check the West Midlands Network website.