TRAIN operator First Great Western has announced it will almost double the number of services running between Gloucestershire and London Paddington this summer.

First Great Western currently runs 10 services each weekday between Gloucestershire and London Paddington.

But that will increase to 17 a day from Monday, May 19.

The improvements will mean there is a service every two hours for most of the day and more regularly at peak times.

First Great Western's customer services director Edith Rodgers said: "This means customers in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire and the Stroud Valley will have more direct services to London Paddington than ever before."

The company has also met with Wessex Trains to discuss a partnership to provide additional weekday services between Swindon and Cheltenham and Gloucestershire.

First Great Western have also warned they expect the trains to be extremely busy during the Easter holidays.

Ms Rodgers said: I would strongly advise if you are thinking of travelling you make your reservation with us as soon as possible."

The busiest days look set to be Good Friday, Easter Monday and Thursday, April 17.

Extra routes to popular destinations such as Devon and Cornwall are being added to cope with the demand.

Seat reservations are complimentary if made at the time of booking.

Tickets can be bought at any staffed National Rail station or from First Great Western telesales on 08457 000 125.