ScotRail has increased services from today (Monday) to more than 90 per cent of the normal timetable.

All routes will have normal early morning, late night, and peak services.

The train operator say 100% of normal capacity will be provided during peak travel hours, although many seats will need to remain empty to maintain physical distancing.

The increase in services comes ahead of the expected reopening of schools on August 11, which could result in an increase in the number of people travelling on ScotRail services.

ScotRail say the suspension of driver training during lockdown, due to physical distancing rules making it impossible for two people to sit in the driver’s cab at the same time, means it’s not yet possible for a full service to operate.

Where ScotRail must operate a reduced service, it will be at the times of the day when fewest people travel.

People are urged to consider alternative travel options where possible, including walking and cycling, to free up space for those who have no choice but to travel by train.

For those who do travel on ScotRail services, the operator is asking customers to continue to follow its five rules for safer travel and take personal responsibility: A number of measures have been introduced in recent weeks to keep staff and passengers safe, including the provision of hand sanitiser and face masks at the busiest stations in the country.

Face coverings are mandatory at stations and on trains.

Platform markings and guidance at ticket vending machines are supporting station announcements and messages on customer information screens, to help customers during their journey.

Customers are reminded to buy in advance of travel via the ScotRail app, website, or station facilities to ensure waiting times are reduced and physical distancing supported. All customers must hold a valid ticket before boarding a train.

David Simpson, ScotRail Operations Director, said: “Thanks to the hard work of staff across Scotland’s Railway, we’ll operate as close to a normal timetable as possible.

"Like businesses across the world, we continue to face challenges caused by coronavirus, but we will have every available train in service from 3 August.

“We do need everybody to continue taking personal responsibility for their travel choices, because physical distancing can’t be guaranteed.

"Customers who do travel with ScotRail should follow our five rules for safer travel, including the wearing of a face covering on trains and at stations.”