Rail services recover after ice-related disruption

Rail services have been restored after morning commuters faced delays and cancellations as the cold snap caused significant disruption across the Merseyrail network.

The operator said its trains struggled in the icy conditions to draw enough power.

Services on lines across the city region were suspended or delayed and several rail replacement bus services were laid on to help passengers complete their journeys.

"We know people rely on our services," said Merseyrail's chief operating officer Stephen Dodd. "I'd like to apologise to anyone whose journey was disrupted earlier today."

Dodd said contingency plans had been "immediately activated", including the use of a diesel-powered train to help clear ice.

Some replacement bus services struggled to negotiate the icy roads, he said.

Merseyrail said customers were provided with immediate travel alternatives, with tickets being accepted on local bus and other rail services.

• The Chester line was suspended between Rock Ferry and Chester
• The Ellesmere Port line was suspended between Rock Ferry and Ellesmere Port
• Services between Sandhills and Ormskirk were suspended
• The Ormskirk & Hunts Cross lines were suspended
• Services to and from West Kirby, New Brighton and Southport were cancelled or delayed
• Due to a train having technical issues at Kirkby, services on the Headbolt Lane line were suspended between Rice Lane and Headbolt Lane
• Services to and from Headbolt Lane were cancelled or delayed

Shortly after 13:00 GMT, services were gradually returning to normal.

Merseyrail is still advising passengers to check before they travel.

Services on the West Kirby line are currently running as scheduled.

But trains on the following lines are still at risk of delays or cancellations:

• Chester
• Ellesmere Port
• New Bright
• Southport
• Ormskirk & Hunts Cross
• Headbolt Lane

Ticket acceptance is in place for Merseyrail ticket holders to travel for free on relevant Stagecoach and Arriva bus services.

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