NATIONAL Express train operator c2c is providing more than 120,000 extra seats to help families make the most of the summer holidays.

From now until the end of August, 16 of c2c’s most popular off-peak trains every day will be doubled in length to eight carriages and there will be additional specialist staff travelling on trains.

This includes the first six daily off-peak trains from Southend to London, and will provide more than 4,500 extra seats every weekday.

During the school summer holidays, c2c is also deploying its mobile teams of Travel Guardians.

These are specialist staff who will be travelling around the c2c network to provide travel advice and assistance as well as dealing with any incidents of antisocial behaviour.

Their particular focus will be helping young people, who may not be used to travelling alone on trains.

c2c managing director Julian Drury said: “We know the school holidays are a really popular time for day trippers, whether they’re heading into London or to the coast.

“That’s why we’re putting more seats on our busiest offpeak trains, and why we will have additional expert staff who can provide help and advice for customers.”