Rail disruption after attempted cable theft

National Rail said staff were working to fix the damaged cables

Rail services through the West Midlands will be disrupted until the end of the day.

National Rail said thieves had tried to steal cabling equipment and as a result, trains would run at reduced speed on all lines between Birmingham New Street and Wolverhampton.

Additionally, a points failure on the same line means trains will not stop at stations along the way.

Delays and cancellations were expected. Replacement coaches were in operation between Birmingham International and Wolverhampton.

National Rail said delays, cancellations and diversions should be expected, and that staff were working to repair the damaged cables.

It advised commuters to use their tickets on other rail services, as well as National Express West Midlands buses, and West Midlands Metro services between Birmingham New Street and Wolverhampton.

Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern services were all affected.

It means Transport for Wales services from Shrewsbury to Birmingham stations are terminating and starting at Wolverhampton.