Media centre

Wednesday 28 Feb 2018

Passengers urged to check before they travel as snow and ice hits the north west

Region & Route:

| North West & Central

Passengers are being urged to plan their journeys and check before they travel as the icy weather continues to grip the north west of England.

Huge amounts of snow have fallen with reports of more than nine inches in Cumbria and even greater depths between Carlisle and the Scottish border.

As a result, there are currently no trains running north of Carlisle and trains south of Carlisle are subject to delays or cancellation. Network Rail is working with all train operators to keep as many trains moving and lines open as possible.

Ian Joslin, maintenance manager for Network Rail, based in Carlisle, said: "We are doing all we can to keep passengers on the move. We have extra staff working to help keep the railway open and are using all the equipment and technology we have to clear the snow away from key areas.

“The heavy snow means trains have to slow down – just as a car would on a road – which can cause some delays. Some routes are more affected than others.

“Our advice to passengers is to plan your journey, allow extra time to make it and always check before you travel with your train operator or National Rail Enquiries.”

Snow teams are in place across the network to deal with issues if they arise. Heaters are being used in numerous locations to melt snow and ice from points - which allow trains to switch from one track to another - as work continues to help keep the railway open wherever possible.

For the latest travel information visit www.nationalrail.co.uk.