Electrical failure hits rail network across much of England

Major disruption has hit trains across north-west England and the Midlands after an electrical power failure, with delays of up to 60 minutes and services expected to remain affected until the end of the day.

Network Rail is on site and investigating the cause.

Northern Rail has told passengers not to travel at all, saying no trains or replacement buses are running on any route in the North West or Greater Manchester. The operator is allowing tickets to be used across Bee Network buses and Metrolink lines until further notice.

TransPennine Express has also brought all services to a halt, citing a Network Rail power failure in the Greater Manchester and North West area, and is warning of cancellations across every route. The operator said it is exploring options to keep passengers moving, with Metrolink available between Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Victoria and the airport.

Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway and Transport for Wales services are affected as well.