Passengers travelling between Preston and Manchester have been urged to check their journeys before travelling after a fallen tree damaged overhead electrical lines on the railway.
Strong winds brought several trees down overnight causing damage to lines in the Lostock area, which has disrupted passengers.
Delays and cancellations are likely to last throughout the day as engineers work as quickly as possible to repair the damage to overhead lines.
Train operator Northern has warned that services travelling through the area will be cancelled or delayed by up to 90 minutes.
Darren Miller, infrastructure director for Network Rail’s North West route said: “We’re very sorry for the disruption which has been caused by severe winds overnight.
“Trees can knock down overhead power lines, severing connections or knocking down masts entirely which causes major disruption for passengers. Please check before you travel as there is likely to be disruption to services for the whole day as we fix repair the damage.”
Passengers should check their journey before leaving home and consider whether alternative travel arrangements where possible.
Image credit: Network Rail