Merseyrail apologises after snow cancellations

Merseyrail is gradually resuming services after cancellations earlier on Friday

Merseyrail has apologised after cancelling all services earlier following heavy snow.

It is resuming services across the region but said it was unable to provide rail replacement buses.

Managing director Jane English said the network uses an electric-powered third rail, which could not function properly due to snowfall.

"When there is snow or ice on the third rail, it prevents the trains from picking up power."

Snow fell in Liverpool, including near Lime Street Station

She said they were "unable to provide rail replacement buses due to road conditions".

• LIVE: Snow causes disruption in the North West

She added they had been working "flat out" to clear the tracks.

"As soon as that process is complete, we will be able to lift the suspension of services," she said.

Commuters were advised to check Merseyrail service updates online and its Twitter page.