Two broken-down freight trains are blocking the West Coast main line in both directions between Preston and Carlisle, causing delays to passengers.

A Network Rail spokesperson said: “The first failed freight train is stuck just south of Carlisle, blocking the line heading north. The second is blocking the south-bound line between Oxenholme and Milnthorpe.

“We hope to have the north-bound line reopened to passenger trains by lunchtime, but work to reopen the sound-bound line is expected to take longer due to the severity of damage to the failed freight train.

“We are working with the freight operators to move the two broken-down trains and get passengers on the move again as soon as possible.”


Virgin Trains East Coast are conveying passengers between London Kings Cross and Edinburgh in both directions until further notice.


Coach Hire Bookings Rail Replacement Vehicles are conveying passengers between Preston and Carlisle in both directions until further notice.


Crosscountry are conveying passengers between Birmingham New Street and Edinburgh in both directions until further notice. Arrangements have been made for Virgin Trains rail tickets to be accepted for these journeys.


Northern are conveying passengers between Carlisle and Newcastle in both directions until further notice. Arrangements have been made for Virgin Trains rail tickets to be accepted for these journeys.