RESIDENTS looking to travel this December via rail are being urged to plan ahead and book in advance by Great Western Railway (GWR) as it introduces its new winter timetable from Sunday, December 14.

GWR said customers are able to check their journey and find the best Christmas fares online.

Journey planners are up to date with information covering Christmas and the New Year via the Great Western Railway website.

Services are expected to be busiest on Monday December 22, Tuesday December 23, Saturday December 27 and Sunday, December 28.

A spokesperson for Great Western Railway said: “GWR is advising those travelling this Christmas to book in advance and to try to travel at quieter times for the best experience.”