LESS than two weeks remain until a train operator’s new timetable is introduced.

National Express operator c2c, which runs the Essex Thameside line between Shoebury and Fenchurch Street, introduces the timetable on Sunday, December 13, following a consultation process earlier this year.

The timetable is designed to provide more seats for passengers travelling the longest distances, extra capacity for those making short hops, and better connections with more London destinations.

However pressure from passengers meant the initial plan was amended in October to retain the fastest journey times.

Managing director Julian Drury said: “We’re trying to ensure as many passengers as possible know their train times will be changing in two weeks.

“We’re using as many channels as possible, including this new video and our dedicated online tool, to provide passengers with the information they need.

“Once the new timetable is implemented it will provide over 1,400 extra seats each morning, better connections at peak times and new weekend destinations like direct trains to Stratford and Liverpool Street.”

A video starring local children from Bournes Green Junior School in Thorpe Bay, Shorehouse Design builders from Leigh-on-Sea, and c2c employees Tracie, Lucky and Brian, has also been released to promote the change. The video is available at www.youtube.com/watch?v=GahjKjMKf6o.

c2c has also published an online tool which enables passengers to check new train times, tailored to the individual journeys they make. The information includes details of how busy each train is expected to be in the peak as well as specific train times.

The change to train times is also being promoted through adverts at stations and in the local media, leaflets handed out at stations and delivered to local homes, onboard and at-station announcements, and through social media.

Full details of the timetable change, including copies of the new timetable, are available at c2c-online.co.uk/travel-information/timetables-trains/new-dec-2015-timetable