SCOTRAIL will increase the number of services it runs from Monday next week, including all peak-time trains.

The train operator will run 90% of normal services from August 3, compared to the current level of 60%.

Demand is expected to increase ahead of schools returning in Scotland on August 11.

Driver training has been suspended as it requires two people to sit in the cabin at the same time.

As a result, certain services will remain suspended.

Commuters are still being urged to consider other travel options including walking and cycling to free up space for those who must use the train.

Face coverings are mandatory at stations and on trains, and anyone who feels ill or has a temperature should not travel.

David Simpson, ScotRail operations director, said: “Thanks to the hard work of staff across Scotland’s railway, we’ll operate as close to a normal timetable as possible from Monday August 3.

“Like businesses across the world, we continue to face challenges caused by coronavirus but we will have every available train in service from August 3.

“We do need everybody to continue taking personal responsibility for their travel choices because physical distancing can’t be guaranteed.

“Customers who do travel with ScotRail should follow our five rules for safer travel, including the wearing of a face covering on trains and at stations.”