Rail passengers are being warned of reduced services between Cardiff Central and Birmingham New Street today due to a shortage of train drivers, with some services likely to be cancelled at short notice. The disruption is expected to continue until the end of the day.

Travellers are advised to check the National Rail Enquiries real-time journey planner and the CrossCountry website for the latest updates before setting out.

To help keep passengers moving, tickets will be accepted at no extra cost on a number of alternative routes. CrossCountry customers may use their tickets on:

• The two CrossCountry services operating immediately before and after any cancelled service

• Great Western Railway services between Cardiff Central and Bristol Parkway (both directions)

• Great Western Railway services between Cheltenham Spa and Bristol Temple Meads via Gloucester (both directions)

• Transport for Wales services between Cardiff Central and Cheltenham Spa (both directions)

Passengers who choose to start their journey at a different station due to the disruption, and need to return there later, will also be able to use their existing ticket to do so without additional cost.

Image: CrossCountry