Train service resumes after a decade

The new service launched at Wrexham General

The first early morning train service from Wrexham to Cardiff in 10 years started on Monday.

The new route has been introduced as part of a new winter timetable which has been funded by a £700,000 partnership between Wales & Borders Trains and the Welsh Assembly.

We believe it will prove to be an attractive alternative to the car

Chris Gibb,Wales & Borders Trains

The direct train from Wrexham to Cardiff will take two hours and 20 minutes.

Passengers from Chester and Shrewsbury will also benefit from the new timetable.

Chris Gibb, managing director of Wales & Borders Trains, said: "This new service demonstrates our commitment to enhancing rail services across Wales.

"It will offer many benefits and considering the journey time we believe it will prove to be an attractive alternative to the car."

For the last 10 years, pasengers travelling to Cardiff, have had to change at Crewe to get a train to the city.

Passengers will have shorter travelling times

Fares for the new service, which departe Wrexham General at 0741 BST and arrive in Cardiff at 1009 BST start at £29.

The return journey leaves Cardiff at 1714 BST arriving in Wrexham General at 1944 BST

Other improvements include a direct service from Chester to Cardiff and passengers on the Shrewsbury to Chester line will also see an increase in services.

The current two hourly train service will be run hourly during the morning and early afternoon in both directions from Monday to Saturday.