Emergency crews are responding to an incident near the railway between Patricroft in Salford and Newton-le-Willows, blocking all lines and causing significant disruption to train services between Manchester and Liverpool this morning (Thursday, October 22).
The line is closed between Newton-le-Willows/Wigan North Western and Manchester, with services cancelled, delayed or revised. Disruption is expected to continue until 12pm.
Affected routes and operators
Routes affected include Northern services between Liverpool Lime Street and Manchester Victoria/Manchester Airport, as well as between Chester and Leeds. TransPennine Express services between Liverpool Lime Street and Hull/Newcastle are also impacted, along with Transport for Wales services between Holyhead and Manchester Airport.
A post on the Network Rail Manchester Piccadilly account said: "Due to the emergency services dealing with an incident, some trains between Manchester and Liverpool Lime Street may be delayed or cancelled. Customers are advised to plan ahead via their train operator website or @nationalrailenq."
Official statements
National Rail said: "The emergency services are dealing with an incident near the railway between Newton-le-Willows and Patricroft. Whilst they attend the incident, all lines are closed.
"As a result, trains running between Newton-le-Willows/Wigan North Western and Manchester may be cancelled, delayed, revised or diverted. Disruption is expected until 12:00."
The Manchester Evening News has contacted the British Transport Police for further information. Passengers are advised to check with their train operator for the latest updates.
