Direct train link between Glasgow & Blackpool restored after 20 years

Jul 1 2010 By Ben Spencer

Blackpool

AN HISTORIC train link for holidaymakers between Blackpool and Glasgow has been brought back after a 20-year absence.

The direct service from the city to the Lancashire seaside resort was a favourite for generations of Glaswegians who would travel for a holiday down south during the Glasgow Fair.

The train link is being brought back on Friday in time for this year's Glasgow Fair holiday on July 17.

It comes at a time when a new generation of Glaswegians have discovered the glitzy lights, beaches and entertainment of the Golden Mile at the English resort.

It is thought that older generations are also likely to take advantage of the service to recreate the old Fairs holidays of their pasts.

The current weak state of the pound compared to foreign currencies means that holidaymakers travelling to Blackpool can expect to get better value for their money. They will also avoid potential problems using the airway as seen in recent months with the travel chaos brought by the Icelandic ash cloud.

One way tickets for the service which is being run by TransPennine Express will cost s17. Leo Goodwin, commercial director for the rail firm, said: "With UK resorts like Blackpool already seeing visitor numbers up we hope this new service with its great value fares will prove popular."

Blackpool tourism boss Maxine Callow was also excited about the reintroduction of the service to the Lancashire tinsel town.

She added: "We love the Scots and Scotland loves Blackpool."

A report released this week found the seaside tourism industry in England and Wales employs as many people as the whole of the telecommunications sector.

The report by Sheffield Hallam University also found that the Blackpool area has the largest single concentration of seaside tourist jobs - boasting more than 19,000.

Direct services will leave Glasgow Central for Blackpool.

For more information on times, prices or to book, visit: www.tpexpress.co.uk or call 08456786974.