BUSES will replace Sunday train services between Blackburn and Preston for around two months this winter.

Operator First North Western has had to provide alternative arrangements between November 9 and December 28 because Network Rail is carrying out essential engineering works.

A First North Western spokeswoman said: "We apologise for any inconvenience. The buses provided will stop at every station that the train service it replaces would have stopped at."

Meanwhile, the firm is advising passengers to check train times as the new winter timetables come into force on Sunday.

Commercial director Denise Lennox said: "Passengers should be aware that some minor changes have been incorporated into the new timetables with some trains departing a few minutes earlier.

"We have tried to make the changes as clear as possible by ensuring timetables and information posters are available at stations and on our www.firstnorthwestern.co.uk website."

Passengers wanting to check journey times can call First North Western's 24-hour enquiry line on 0800 528 0200 or alternatively National Rail Enquiries on 08457 484950.