1. Hull Trains axes all services amid outbreakpublished at 07:53 British Summer Time 30 March 2020

    Hull Trains has axed all its services because of the "unprecedented circumstances" amid the coronavirus pandemic.

    Train at platformImage source, Hull Trains

    The firm said passenger numbers had "dropped significantly" since the government lockdown came into force.

    Managing director Louise Cheeseman, said it was a difficult decision, but one which was necessary to safeguard the future of the business.

    There will no service from Monday until the pandemic restrictions are lifted.

    Hull Trains, thought to be Britain's smallest train company and employs about 130 staff, says it has not been offered additional financial support from the government, which franchised rail operators have.

    Union bosses have told the firm they expect the firm's workers' wages to be guaranteed "at 100%".

  2. Leeds West Indian Carnival axes 2020 showpublished at 07:45 British Summer Time 30 March 2020

    An annual West Yorkshire carnival, which has been staged for more than 50 years, has been forced to cancel its 2020 event because of coronavirus.

    Woman in carnival outfit

    Leeds West Indian Carnival, which started in 1967, as a remedy for homesickness for those who migrated from the Caribbean, was due to take place in August.

    Officials said they were deeply saddened and the decision had been taken with "a heavy heart".

    However, the carnival's founder Dr Arthur France promised to be "jammin' again" in 2021.

    "As carnivalists we know how to unite the city through joy, happiness and adversity and it's these qualities that will help us get through these difficult times," he said.

    "We want everyone to stay safe and look after our elders and the most vulnerable within our community following the government guidelines."