THE timetable has been announced for the free shuttle train which will run between Oxenholme and Windermere this Easter weekend.

Plans were already in place for a bus service to replace trains on the Lakes Line, which is being affected by major engineering works to replace stretches of track on the West Coast main line.

However, holidaymakers and locals will now have the option of catching the shuttle train between Oxenholme and Windermere this Saturday and Sunday, said Network Rail.

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On Saturday, the train will depart from Oxenholme at 9.37, 10.37, 11.37, 13.37, 15.37 and 17.37, and the return shuttle from Windermere will leave at 10.06, 11.06, 12.06, 14.37, 16.37 and 18.37.

And while Sunday's timetable has not been officially confirmed, it is understood the same six return journeys will take place at the same time. 

The specially chartered train has been arranged by Network Rail, Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron and charter operator West Coast Railways.

Mr Farron said: "I’m absolutely over the moon we’ve been able to secure this service."

He added: "Easter is crucial to the Lake District economy so this is brilliant news there’ll be a train running on the Lakes Line this weekend.”

David Brown, managing director of Northern, train operator for the Lakes branch line, said: "This special train will complement the comprehensive bus service we have organised for customers this weekend.”

Passengers are advised to check before they travel at www.nationalrail.co.uk/westcoast