Trains cancelled as overhead cables damaged

A number of trains were cancelled during a peak period for commuters

Damage to overhead wires caused delays for rail commuters using the West Coast Mainline between Macclesfield and Stoke-on-Trent on Thursday morning.

It meant there were no services heading south from Stoke-on-Trent, with passengers advised to travel to Crewe for onward connections.

The issue led to a number of cancellations during the peak period.

Avanti West Coast posted on X to warn passengers about disruption just before 07:30 GMT.

Trains were unable to travel between Macclesfield and Stoke-on-Trent due to damage to overhead cables

Customers were advised in the post to check for updates online before setting off on their journeys.

The cause of the wire damage is unclear but it comes amid potential travel disruption posed by Storm Pia which, according to the Met Office, has brought gusts of up to 70mph.

Large parts of the West Midlands have been affected by the strong winds, with a number of trees down across the region.