Big freeze hits services on Merseyrail network

Various Merseyrail lines are facing major disruption

A raft of services on the Merseyrail train network have been disrupted because of freezing conditions overnight, the company said.

Links on the Ellesmere Port, Southport, Hunts Cross/Ormskirk and the Headbolt Lane via Kirkby lines were facing delays, Merseyrail said.

Rail replacement buses have been introduced in some areas to compensate.

Merseyrail said customers should beware of services being altered or cancelled.

Chief operating officer Stephen Dodd said: "Due to freezing conditions overnight, Merseyrail services have been disrupted on several lines this morning following a build-up of ice on the rails.

He said Network Rail staff had worked overnight but the conditions meant that ice had formed "on the electrified third rail, preventing power being supplied to trains", particularly in more rural parts.

"Unfortunately, due to the locations this has affected all Northern line services," he said.

Mr Dodd advised anyone travelling to "check the latest travel advice on our website, app or X social media channel (@merseyrail) before heading to the station".