Staff at Harrogate Train Station are on high alert, looking out for travellers with suspected symptoms who  are about to embark on a journey. 

The station, which is used by thousands of travellers a day commuting to work or travelling onward to destinations across the UK, is operated by Northern Rail Limited, which is issuing staff with regular updates and advice as the Coronavirus crisis deepens.  

Gordon Hyde, one of six station supervisors, told The Stray Ferret: “With cases in Leeds, Bradford and now Ilkley, there is a feeling that this outbreak is getting closer and we are all on a high state of alert, looking out for travellers who appear to have the symptoms and asking them if they feel travelling is wise.” 

All station staff are following strict company guidelines about the use of anti-bacterial handwash, while the cleaning team is paying special attention to handrails on stairs and other parts of station. 

Gordon, adds: “Everybody needs to be vigilant about their own health and potential impact on other travellers if they are unwell. In the meantime, we will continue to run our services with passenger safety our top priority.” 

A spokesperson for Harrogate Bus Company, which carries thousands of passengers a day in the Harrogate district, says: 

“We always want all our colleagues and all our customers to be safe and well, particularly when working and travelling with us. It’s really important that everyone is able go about their lives normally and, as a bus company and key transport provider for Harrogate, we are critical in enabling people to do that.  

“We’re taking steps inside our company to ensure everyone is prepared. Our normal cleaning regime is thorough, with every single bus cleaned inside and out every night, with extra valets taking place during the day at bus stations, and we will keep this under review to ensure we keep standards high. 

“Our approach is balanced, to ensure the welfare of our colleagues and customers, whilst not fuelling any hysteria which might come from a knee-jerk reaction. 

With the situation for those travelling by air changing on an almost daily basis, Leeds Bradford Airport recommend that travellers with booked flights or thinking about booking a flight, contact the airlines direct for information and updates.