Train services on the West Coast Main Line are continuing to be disrupted because of damage to overhead line equipment at Polesworth in Warwickshire caused by Storm Darragh.

The damage was identified during a routine track inspection on Friday, 6th December when engineers discovered damage to an overhead line structure that carries the wires to supply power to electric trains.

To enable passenger and freight trains to continue running safely, engineers have installed a temporary structure to support the overhead lines.

One line at Polesworth is still closed, but services on the remaining three lines continue to operate through the area, although at reduced speeds.

Until repairs are fully complete, journey times are expected to take longer, and before starting their journeys, passengers should check with their train operator at www.nationalrail.co.uk.

Because the one line was closed, London Northwestern Railway services travelling southbound could not stop at Atherstone station. Until further notice, rail-replacement bus services will be provided for passengers travelling southbound to/from Atherstone between Tamworth, Atherstone, and Nuneaton.

Before the damaged structure can be replaced, the railway embankment must be prepared, and engineers must work around the clock.

A full repair plan is also being developed so that the southbound line can be returned to service and a four-track railway restored as soon as possible.

Until repairs are complete, some train services may be diverted, amended, or cancelled, and the latest travel advice can be found at www.nationalrail.co.uk.

While urgent repairs to the damaged overhead line structure are being completed, Network Rail is working hard to keep passengers and freight services through Polesworth moving. After the structure was propped up, the speed of trains through the area was safely increased, but journeys are still being affected.

Storm Darragh caused extensive damage to railways throughout the UK, from the disruption at Polesworth down to narrow gauge railways in Wales.

“We apologise for the disruption caused to customers in Atherstone while Network Rail complete vital repairs to the overhead cables. Rail replacement services will be in operation until southbound services are able to call at the station once again, with timetables available to view on journey planners.”

Jonny Wiseman, customer experience director at London Northwestern Railway