Runners participating in the Edinburgh Marathon were left frustrated as they were denied entry to ScotRail trains while heading to the capital to join the event. On early morning services between Glasgow and Edinburgh, trains were packed to the brim, leading to some runners being turned away at stations along the route. Reports revealed that passengers already onboard were being advised by train conductors to safeguard their space and prevent others from boarding at subsequent stops.
The main service impacted was the 7.56am train from Glasgow to Edinburgh, with stations like Polmont and Linlithgow experiencing the chaos. With the marathon scheduled to kick off at 10am, the inability to board the train meant that many runners faced the risk of missing the race after months of rigorous training and fundraising for charity. Pictures depicted overcrowded platforms at Edinburgh Waverley and runners encountering delays while passing through barriers before the event.
ScotRail, who had previously added extra carriages for the marathon, failed to make any such arrangements this year. Disappointed runners recounted their experiences, with one individual expressing frustration over the lack of space on the train and the conductor instructing passengers to prevent others from boarding. The situation left some runners stranded and unable to reach the starting line, putting a damper on their long-awaited day. Paul McKay, ScotRail’s Head of Communications, issued an apology to affected customers and assured them of compensation for delays exceeding 30 minutes through the Delay Repay Guarantee. Remember to retain tickets and file claims through the ScotRail website or mobile app for reimbursement.
