TRAINS will run on the Airedale line on Boxing Day.

Rail company Northern says services will operate, to a special timetable, between Skipton and Bradford.

Its trains will also run on two other routes – between Ilkley and Bradford, and Bolton and Salford Central in Greater Manchester.

Northern says it will be the first time “in many years” that it has provided Boxing Day services.

“Though trains are only running on three routes it’s a real step forward for our customers at Christmas time,” said Paul Barnfield, the company’s service delivery director.

“It will give Yuletide customers more flexibility.

“However, trains on the three lines will not run to the normal timetables and any customers thinking of travelling on Boxing Day should check ahead and make themselves aware of when their services are operating.”

Departures from Skipton will be hourly, starting at 7.50am and finishing at 4.50pm.

Trains from Bradford Forster Square to Skipton will depart hourly between 9am and 6pm.