Train operator Merseyrail says it is working ‘flat out’ to get its trains running after suspending all services due to snow on Friday morning. Tony McDonough reports
Services on the Merseyrail network have slowly started to resume after they were suspended on Friday morning due to heavy snowfall.
On Thursday afternoon Merseyrail warned of disruption with the Met Office predicting more snow for the region. However, the volume of snow that fell in the early hours of Friday forced the train operator to suspend all services.
As of 10am this morning some services had started to come back but there were still multiple cancellations. Merseyrail’s electric-powered third rail is prevented from picking up power by snow and ice.
Acting managing director Jane English said: “Due to significant snowfall overnight across the Liverpool city region, all services on the Merseyrail network were suspended this morning. We apologise to passengers who are affected by this suspension.
“We have also been unable to provide rail-replacement buses due to road conditions. Many bus operators are also suspending and cancelling services due to the weather conditions.
“We have been working flat out this morning to clear the tracks. As soon as that process is complete, we will be able to lift the suspension of services.
“Our teams have a winter weather plan that they are working to, ensuring we can get services back and running as soon as possible.
“Passengers should continue to check our website, app or social media channels for the latest travel advice.”