Retired train drivers are being urged to return to work to ease crippling staff shortages on Scotland’s rail network.
Analysis by The Times found that almost a thousand ScotRail services had been cancelled in the past year because of a lack of crew.
Abellio, the Dutch company that operates the franchise, confirmed that older former drivers had been sought to help bolster numbers.
Aslef, which represents rail workers, said the tactic was ridiculous. Kevin Lindsay, the Scottish organiser, told Scotland on Sunday: “The successive failures of Abellio management to recruit and retain drivers has led to the ridiculous situation of Abellio attempting to bring retired drivers back.
“These drivers have worked hard and deserve dignity in retirement without being harassed back into the railway.
