TRAIN operators have urged people to only travel if absolutely necessary as 40,000 rail workers prepare to walk out in the latest in a series of strikes.

Govia Thameslink Railway, who operate Southern, Thameslink and Gatwick Express services, has warned that no trains will run on many lines south of London this Saturday (October 1).

No services will operate towards Seaford, Eastbourne, Hastings, Littlehampton or Bognor, with only a limited number of trains running between Brighton and Hove.

Services will also be impacted on Sunday, with trains starting later in the day, affecting those taking part in this week’s London Marathon.

Pre-planned engineering work on October 1 will also stop trains running between Brighton and Three Bridges, with rail replacement buses in operation.

The Argus: Map of services during strike action on October 1Map of services during strike action on October 1 (Image: GTR)

Strike action will also take place on October 8 amid the ongoing dispute over pay, causing further travel disruption for commuters.

Angie Doll, chief operating officer at Govia Thameslink Railway, said: “It is with much regret that we have to advise our passengers to travel only if absolutely necessary on Saturdays 1 and 8 October.

“Strike action means train services across the country will be significantly limited, with many routes not running at all.

“Services will start much later in the morning. We expect our first trains to be very busy so, if you can, please travel later in the day. Trains will also finish as early as 4.30pm, so plan ahead if you absolutely have to travel on these days.

“We’re particularly concerned for London Marathon runners, who will have been training for this special event for many months, hoping to raise millions of pounds for charity, and the spectators.

“Our trains won’t start that Sunday morning until around 7.30am and many won’t reach central London until shortly before 9am. Only people making short journeys within London are likely to make the start line in time.

“We urge the unions to work with the industry and come to a resolution.”

General secretary of the RMT union Mick Lynch recently met with new transport secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan in order to try and end the dispute.

While Mr Lynch said the meeting was a “step forward”, he said no progress had in made in breaking the deadlock.

He said: “It only means she can tick a box. Nothing has changed There was no outcome, and we will continue with our campaign.”