Emergency services rush to scene of train derailment in Cumbria

Transport Minister Heidi Alexander said a major incident had been declared after a train derailed near Shap in Cumbria but “no injuries were reported”.

The North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) said it sent paramedics to the scene near the village of Shap on the West Coast Main Line.

In a statement, NWAS said: “Following reports of a train derailment near Shap in Cumbria, the trust deployed resources to the scene.

“We are currently assessing the situation and working with other members of the emergency service.

“Our priority is to make sure people get the medical help they need as quickly as possible.”

Rail company Avanti West Coast has advised customers not to travel north of Preston after a train derailed in Cumbria today.

The company said on social media: “All lines are blocked due to train derailment between Penrith North Lakes and Oxenholme Lake District. We strongly advise customers not to travel north of Preston today.”

Emergency services were called to a train derailment near Shap in Cumbria.

Train company Avanti West Coast said all lines were closed after the incident on the line between Penrith and Oxenholme stations.

It said on social media: “All lines are blocked due to train derailment between Penrith North Lakes and Oxenholme Lake District. We strongly advise customers not to travel north of Preston today.”