LETHBRIDGE, ALTA. -- A popular southern Alberta rail excursion has been stopped in its tracks by the latest COVID-19 restrictions, and some customers are expressing frustration after learning there would be no cash refunds for the tickets they’d purchased.

Aspen Crossings “Polar Express” train ride was scheduled to run through the month of December, but the operators of the event were notified by AHS last week that the excursions would not be allowed to proceed due to tighter government regulations that went into effect November 27.

Steven and Laura Curran of Taber were among hundreds of people who’d pre-purchased tickets, expecting to get away for some holiday fun with their family.

“This was a Christmas gift I can give my children,” said Laura.

The Currans' disappointment turned to frustration after they were told Aspen Crossing would not be providing cash refunds, but was offering customers gift cards, or tickets to next years “Polar Express” event.

The Currans had previously purchased tickets for a train excursion in July that was also cancelled. At that time they were given credit toward “Polar Express”.           

The Currans said altogether they’d spent about $350.

“They knew the pandemic was potentially an issue,” said Laura. “I don’t think I would have gone ahead and bought those tickets without seeing the terms and conditions stating that we’d be given a refund in the event of a cancellation.”