Free tram and bus travel for fans to reduce Grand Final transport misery

Wigan Warriors fans heading to Saturday's Grand Final in Manchester have been given a travel boost by transport bosses.
Free Metrolink travel is available on Saturday for those going to the Grand FinalFree Metrolink travel is available on Saturday for those going to the Grand Final
Free Metrolink travel is available on Saturday for those going to the Grand Final

Rugby league supporters can expect transport mayhem before and after the match at Old Trafford as Northern train services to and from the borough are not running due to a rail strike.

Related: Rail operator says Wigan fans must plan ahead for day without trainsHowever, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has confirmed anyone with a match ticket will be able to travel on Metrolink for free.

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There will also be no charge for the park-and-ride scheme running from the East Lancs Road to the city centre.

However, fans will still need to plan their journeys carefully.

Demand for trams is likely to be enormous with fans being encouraged to walk a short distance to stations other than Old Trafford to minimise queues.

In particular supporters are asked to consider making journeys to and from Trafford Bar and Exchange Quay.

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Anyone thinking of using the park and ride is also asked to consider car sharing as there is only space for 250 vehicles to be left there.

Transport bosses and the governing body recommend as many people as possible travelling on the club's official coaches, with a fleet of more than 30 vehicles departing from Wigan.

Rugby league fans thinking of taking in the Women's Super League Grand Final early on Saturday afternoon between Wigan and Leeds at the Manchester Regional Arena can also use the ample car parking around the Etihad Campus.

From there a tram goes directly to Old Trafford via the city centre.

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Manchester United has also recommended supporters arrive at the stadium at least an hour before the 6pm kick off to allow time for bag searches.

All the information about travel on Saturday can be found at www.tfgm.com/travel-updates/super-league-2018#