Rail delays after Manchester-Liverpool points failure

Passengers face cancellations and delays of up to 60 minutes across the North West after a points failure

Rail passengers are experiencing long delays on routes between Manchester and Liverpool after a points failure.

Delays are expected on lines around the North West until 14:00 GMT following the problem in Newton-le-Willows on Merseyside.

Engineers arrived at the scene before 9:00 and all lines were re-opened by 11:20.

But a broken-down train later caused further misery for passengers.

Northern, TransPennine and Transport for Wales said passengers could use other services, including Metrolink.

The disruption has affected services between Manchester's main stations and Liverpool Lime Street as well as services between Manchester Airport and Preston.

Commuter Andrew Jones said he was forced to walk from Warrington Bank Quay to Warrington Central station before boarding a "packed" East Midlands Trains service.

There were also delays and cancellations on Thursday for passengers on lines between Southport and Wigan Wallgate.

A broken-down freight train which became stranded between Chester and Manchester Piccadilly was also affecting services until 10:00, said operator Northern.