Thousands of passengers face severe disruption after a herd of cows blocked one of the UK's busiest railway lines, with delays expected to last up to seven hours. The West Coast Main Line has been blocked in Staffordshire between Lichfield Trent Valley and Rugeley Trent Valley for more than three hours since the incident was reported just before 9am.
Services Affected
Avanti West Coast and Lumo services between London Euston and Scotland, along with London Northwestern Railway and West Midlands Railway services, are all experiencing significant delays and cancellations. Passengers have been warned to expect disruption until 4pm.
According to the Press Association, authorities faced difficulties contacting the farmer responsible for the animals. The incident has caused widespread frustration among travelers, many of whom took to social media to express their grievances.
Passenger Reactions
One affected passenger wrote to Avanti West Coast that they were stuck on a train that had "not moved for three hours." Another complained they had only been offered one 330ml bottle of water, adding: "I'm sure your shop is doing great business." A third stranded passenger posted on X to ask: "How long will these delays last?" and "How long does it take to move cows off the line?"
Alternative Arrangements
Tickets are being accepted on certain alternative routes, and road transport is being provided to help mitigate the disruption. Passengers are advised to check with their train operator for the latest updates and alternative travel options.
