TRAIN passengers have been warned of slower-than-usual journeys and travel disruption as Storm Ciara hits Cumbria this weekend.

Train speeds along Network Rail’s North West & Central region, including the West Coast Main Line and lines in Cumbria, are being reduced to 50pmh on Sunday.

Jake Kelly, Network Rail’s strategic operations and passenger director for the North West & Central region, said: “With the adverse weather forecast this weekend, our plans and decisions are prioritising the safety of passengers and railway staff.

“Our teams have been planning for the likelihood that debris will be blown onto tracks and overhead electric wires.

"We have extra people on the ground at various locations across the region to deal with any disruption. I understand 50mph speed limits on Sunday may be frustrating for some people, but they are a necessary safety precaution when such wild weather is expected."

Business owners and householders neighbouring the railway are also being reminded to secure anything in their gardens and yards which could be blown onto the tracks.

It comes after a trampoline was blown onto the West Coast main line last month bringing disruption to passengers.

Mr Kelly added: “In strong winds trampolines become airborne very easily. Our advice is: Please tether these kinds of items. That way you won’t lose them and train passengers’ journeys won’t be disrupted.

“We’re appealing to people living and working by the railway to ensure other items, such as gazebos, marquees, empty builders’ sacks, tents and the like are fixed in place, so they don’t end up on the tracks during high winds.”