Trains chaos as cows block railway line between London and Scotland for more than three hours
Thousands of rail passengers across the UK are facing significant disruption today after a herd of cows attacked a critical section of the West Coast Main Line.
The incident, which started shortly before 9am, blocked the line between Lichfield Trent Valley and Rugeley Trent Valley in Staffordshire for more than three hours.
West Midlands Rail services between Birmingham International and Rugeley Trent Valley will also not run between Hednesford and Rugeley Trent Valley.
This has affected routes between London Euston and Scotland, leading to widespread delays and cancellations on services operated by Avanti West Coast and Lumo. London Northwestern Railway and West Midlands Railway services were also affected.
The Press Association understands that there have been difficulties in contacting the farmer responsible for the animals.
Passengers are advised to anticipate that the disruption will continue until 16:00.
Alternative travel arrangements are made as tickets are accepted on some other routes.
Road transportation is also provided.
Many affected passengers expressed disappointment on social media.
One wrote that they were stuck on a train to Avanti West Coast that “hadn’t moved for three hours”, while another complained that they were only offered a 330ml bottle of water, adding: “I’m sure your shop does great work.”
Another stranded passenger asked X: “How long will these delays last?” He shared: and “How long does it take to move cows off the line?”
London Northwestern Railway said: “There are cattle on the line just south of Rugeley Trent Valley.
“There may be delays and cancellations as some lines are closed. Staff is on site.”
Traffic monitoring system Inrix issued the following warning: “Services have been suspended due to animals on the line on the Avanti West Coast between Stafford and Rugby and the Rugeley Trent Valley between Stoke-on-Trent and Rugby. Some services are being diverted via Birmingham New Street.”
