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A passenger on board a train when it derailed in Cumbria has admitted that there were initially fears for those on board of another attack similar to the one that took place in Huntingdon over the wekeend. The Avanti West Coast service hit mud left by a landslide at around 90mph near the village of Shap, the train operator confirmed just after 7.30am today. Passengers were evacuated to a nearby hotel and there were no reports of any injuries. It is believed there were around 85 people on board at the time. They were being cared for by rail and hotel staff and given options for forward travel. But those using the rail network were urged not to attempt to use the line. It is likely to be closed for several days. But for those on board, there was a moment of panic following the mass stabbing on a Doncaster to King's Cross service over the weekend. Relieved passenger Matt Hood who was on his way to London said: "It was alarming at first as there was a loud bang. "It did raise concerns because of the awful things that happened over the weekend. As soon as emergency services communicated with us, we were off the train and over a ford to a hotel where they are looking after us." He told the BBC that passengers were being informed of options for onward travel. "There are plans in place to help people get to where they want to be," he added. National Rail said the incident happened between Penrith and Oxenholme, affecting trains running between Carlisle and Preston. Major disruption is expected for several days. Train firm Avanti West Coast said on social media: "All lines are blocked north of Preston due to a derailed train between Penrith North Lakes and Oxenholme Lake District. Please do not attempt to travel north of Preston today. " The train was travelling from Glasgow to London has derailed near Shap in Cumbria. The 04:28 service from Glasgow came off the tracks around 06:10 GMT. Avanti West Coast says "it is likely there will be significant disruption to our network for a number of days." Avanti West Coast say tickets are being accepted 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 CrossCountryUK. The British Transport Police confirmed that 85 passengers were safely escorted from the train derailment. The force added; "The front carriage came off the tracks but remained upright, and BTP remain on scene alongside emergency service colleagues." Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said a major incident had been delcared. Speaking to LBC, she said: "I have been informed of this incident within the last half an hour or so. I know that a major incident has been stood up. There are no reported injuries. "We will work swiftly to make sure that people can get off the train safely. I will be remaining in constant touch with the train operating company and the railway accident investigation branch."
