Copyright scotsman
Train firm Avanti West Coast says a train has derailed between Penrith North Lakes and Oxenholme Lake District in Cumbria. 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. UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said a major incident had been declared but “there are no reported injuries”. All lines are blocked and it is advising people not to travel north of Preston on its services today. Major disruption is expected until the end of the day. Ticket acceptance is in place on alternative routes between London Kings Cross and Edinburgh with LNER, between Edinburgh and Glasgow Central with ScotRail and between Edinburgh and Birmingham New Street with CrossCountry. 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.” This is a breaking story, more updates to come shortly.
