Fire delays East Coast Main Line in Newark

A track-side fire led to serious delays to rail services on the East Coast Main Line during the evening rush hour.

The fire service was called to Barnby Road in Newark, Nottinghamshire, shortly after 1530 BST.

A 200m exclusion zone was set up, affecting the railway line, because of fears the flames could reach nearby acetylene cylinders.

Network Rail said trains were halted between Doncaster and Peterborough but the line reopened at about 1900 BST.

Delays on some services reached three hours and there was also congestion on other routes via Peterborough, Grantham and Newark North Gate.

Customers were advised to check with operators or National Rail Enquiries.