BREAKING
Train Derails in Cumbria, England, Blocking Major Rail Line
This is a developing story.
A passenger train derailed early Monday near the village of Shap in northwest England's Cumbria, prompting a major emergency response but resulting in no reported injuries, authorities confirmed.The incident, reported around 6:30 AM GMT, involved an Avanti West Coast service between Penrith North Lakes and Oxenholme Lake District stations on the West Coast Main Line.
All lines are blocked, causing widespread disruptions for travelers between Carlisle and Preston, with delays of up to two hours or cancellations expected throughout the day.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander declared a major incident to streamline the response, stating: "There are no reported injuries, which is a relief given the circumstances."
The North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) dispatched crews to the scene, saying: "We are currently assessing the situation and working with other emergency services. Our priority is to ensure people receive the medical help they need as quickly as possible."
University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust is on standby for any potential casualties. British Transport Police and fire services are also at the site in the rural, hilly area.
Avanti West Coast advised passengers: "Do not travel north of Preston today." Tickets for affected services remain valid for Tuesday, November 4, without amendment. The cause remains under investigation by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB), with no immediate indications of foul play.
Network Rail confirmed the derailment but provided no further details on the number of carriages or passengers involved.
This comes amid a history of rail incidents in Cumbria, including the 2007 Grayrigg crash and a 2024 sinkhole derailment, though today's event appears less severe.