Rail passengers in Wales and the borders are being urged to check before they travel over the festive period as engineering work takes place throughout the network.

Customers must purchase a valid ticket before boarding a TfW service.

Customers are also reminded that wearing a face covering while on public transport remains the law in England and Wales, unless exempt.

A face covering must also be worn whilst in enclosed stations.

Transport for Wales are working with British Transport Police on a joint operation over the festive period to keep passengers safe.

Operation Genesis will see extra officers and rail staff out across the network throughout December to prevent crime and anti-social behaviour, as well as provide reassurance and personal safety advice to the public.

BTP Superintendent for Wales, Andy Morgan, said: “We want to everyone to enjoy the festive season and we’ll be working closely with our partners to make sure everyone gets home safely.

“Rail is one of the safest ways to travel - but we see how alcohol can really affect judgement, people often take greater risks, and standards of decency and general behaviour can worsen.

“We urge passengers to take extra care of themselves and others during this period to make sure they have a safe journey and take responsibility for their own behaviour.

“As well as having extra officers on hand across the network, we want to remind passengers of our discreet text service. Save the number ‘61016’ in your phone, in case you ever need our assistance on the railway.”