Train delayed due to 'co-moo-ter' cows on line

Cows caused a 30-minute delay for commuters this morning

A train was delayed during the morning rush hour when cattle managed to get onto a railway line.

The Transpennine Express service between York and Manchester Piccadilly was halted by the bovine trespassers, who gained access to the tracks between Huddersfield and Dewsbury on Wednesday.

The two cows refused to move, leaving the 08:58 BST departure stranded near Mirfield.

Commuters had to wait 30 minutes for the animals to be removed, and Transpennine cancelled all of the train's scheduled station stops between Huddersfield and Manchester.

The cows were eventually moved by the farmer and Network Rail staff.

A Network Rail spokesperson said: "At 9:45 BST on Wednesday, we received reports of cows on the line near Mirfield resulting in delays to some train services. Unsure whether they were co-moo-ting or travelling for leisure, they were certainly milking it.

"Our teams headed out to site and, with assistance from the farmer, the cows were re-moo-ved safely from the railway. The line was re-opened at 10:57 BST and we would like to thank passengers for their patience while the incident was ongoing."

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