Rail delays expected after bus crashes into bridge

Rail passengers have been told to expect delays after a bus hit a railway bridge.

Emergency services were called to Hyde Lane in the Swindon Village area of Cheltenham after a Pulhams Coaches bus crashed into the bridge at about 11.45 GMT on Thursday, prompting a two-hour road closure.

Network Rail said engineers were inspecting the bridge to ensure no significant damage was caused, which may lead to "some minor delays to rail services" on Thursday afternoon.

Pulhams, based in Bourton-on-the-Water, said three passengers were onboard when the incident happened but nobody was injured and a full internal investigation into the cause of the crash will be carried out.

A spokesperson for Pulhams confirmed one of its vehicles had been involved in the crash.

All three passengers were sat downstairs and "everyone left the vehicle safely", they added.

"We immediately liaised with the emergency services and our managers quickly attended the scene," the spokesperson added.

"We apologise for any concern and inconvenience caused to our passengers, other motorists and rail users who experienced travel delays as a result of this incident.

"Incidents of this nature are extremely rare and we are proud of our excellent safety record."

Hyde Lane was reopened at about 13:36 GMT, Gloucestershire Constabulary said.

Network Rail said the bus had been removed and its engineers were on site inspecting the bridge and the track to ensure no significant damage had been caused.

"There may be some minor delays to rail services this afternoon as these inspections take place," a spokesperson said.

"These kind of incidents are costly, disruptive and avoidable. If you are operating a large vehicle, please ensure you know the height of your vehicle and plan your route accordingly."

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