RAIL passengers using WGC, Hatfield and Potters Bar stations during the Olympics are being urged to use an earlier service being launched this week.

First Capital Connect (FCC) has announced it is lengthening trains and adding more services to the Great Northern route from tomorrow (Friday) until Sunday, August 12.

The move means every station between London King’s Cross and Watton-at-Stone on the Hertford Loop will have an additional week day service during the remainder of the Games.

Customers using the four-carriage service calling at WGC at 6.40am, Hatfield at 6.44am and Potters Bar at 6.49am have been told to board a six-carriage train leaving the stations at 06:35, 06:39 and 06:46 for a more comfortable journey.

It will arrive at King’s Cross at 7.10am, three minutes later than the usual service.

FCC managing director Neal Lawson said: “We are working hard to ensure we offer the best possible service to passengers and visitors, including for un-ticketed events.

“These extra seats will go a long way to helping our passengers travelling to and from London as quickly and comfortably as possible, ultimately enhancing their Olympic experience.”

FCC said it could not lengthen the usual four carriage service because it calls at stations further up the route that have short platforms.