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Emergency services are at the scene of a 'major incident' after a train derailed in Cumbria. On Monday (November 3), train firm Avanti West Coast confirmed that a passenger train derailed between Penrith North Lakes and Oxenholme Lake District in Cumbria. All lines are currently blocked and they have advised people not to travel north of Preston on its services today. An Avanti West Coast spokesperson said: "At 06.10hrs today, 3 November, the 0428 Avanti West Coast service from Glasgow to Euston was reported to have derailed at Shap in Cumbria. "Our priority is the wellbeing of everyone who was board and getting them safely off the train. We are assisting emergency services who are on the scene. "As a result, all lines are blocked north of Preston. Please do not attempt to travel north of Preston today. "We’ll provide further information in due course, but it is likely there will be significant disruption to our network for a number of days." Emergency services were called to the scene following the derailment, as North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) said it had sent paramedics to the scene near the village of Shap, which is on the West Coast Main Line. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said a major incident had been declared but "there are no reported injuries". She told LBC Radio: "I have been informed of this incident within the last half-an-hour or so. "We will work swiftly to make sure that people can get off the train safely." It has since been confirmed that major disruption is expected for the rest of the day. Network Rail has confirmed that there are no reports of injuries, but passengers are still on board the train. A Network Rail spokesperson said: “We’re investigating a train derailment near Shap in Cumbria following a report by a train driver. There are no reports of injuries and we’re working to safely move the passengers off the train. We will provide further updates as soon as we can. “At present, we’re unable to run trains between Preston and Carlisle. We’re urging passengers to check with their train operator or National Rail Enquiries for the latest information. “We’re very sorry to those whose journeys have been impacted this morning and appreciate your patience while we work to reopen the line. Our top priority is the safety of passengers and staff on the West Coast Main Line.” NWAS said: "Following reports of a train derailment near Shap in Cumbria, the trust has dispatched resources to the scene. "We are currently assessing the situation and working with other members of the emergency services. "Our priority is to ensure people receive the medical help they need as quickly as possible."
