Merseyrail trains on the Southport line are experiencing significant disruption this morning, with services cancelled, changed, or delayed due to a major fault on a train between Freshfield and Ainsdale. The disruption comes as thousands of golf fans attempt to travel to Birkdale for the 154th Open Championship at Royal Birkdale.
Services Cancelled
Merseyrail has confirmed that the 9:28am service from Liverpool Central to Hillside has been cancelled, along with the 10:15am Southport to Hillside service. Passengers have been left stranded at stations, including Freshfield, where a train guard announced to passengers: "There is a major fault on the train ahead of us." The guard added: "We've had to isolate the power on the third rail so the driver can inspect the train. This has caused delays and cancellations throughout the Northern Line. We'd like to apologise for any inconvenience and the disruption this has caused."
Crowds Gather at Southport Station
Crowds have also gathered outside Southport station, with people unable to board any trains at this time. The duration of the disruption remains unknown, and passengers are advised to check for updates.
Impact on The Open
The Open Championship, one of golf's most prestigious events, is being held at Royal Birkdale this year. The disruption is expected to affect thousands of spectators planning to attend the tournament today. Merseyrail has not yet provided an estimated time for when services will resume normally.
