THERE will be no trains through Bolton station for three Sundays, ahead of major improvement works.

Train passengers will be forced to use bus replacement services on July 23 and 30, and August 6, as preparations for two-week station closure take place.

Bolton station will be shut to almost all services from August 12 to 27 for significant improvements, which include the continuing electrification of the line and work to bring a fifth platform back into use.

Network Rail’s Mark Killick said: “These essential improvements will ensure the station is fit for use for many years to come as the demand on train services increase. They will allow more trains to run between Manchester and Preston, enabling faster and more frequent journeys for passengers in Bolton. I understand the work will cause disruption for some people and I apologise but in the long term, the enhancement of the station will improve the passenger experience.”

The final days of the August works clash with the Bolton Food and Drink Festival.