Many train operators are warning passengers not to attempt to travel today, as the high winds of Storm Eunice sweep across Wales and England. Transport for Wales has suspended all services, and operators in England are running restricted timetables, with some lines closed entirely. GWR has cancelled all trains to Cardiff and Swansea, and also closed most of its branch lines in south west England. Avanti West Coast has cancelled most trains to Holyhead, and services are very limited on other lines. CrossCountry has warned that where its trains do run journey times are likely to double, because of a 50mph (80km/h) speed restriction which has been imposed in many places.

Some lines in East Anglia have also been closed, because there is a risk of fallen trees. Network Rail has posted engineers at strategic points who are ready to react to problems. After the storm has passed, they will check for blocked lines and other damage. Network Rail’s group director, System Operator, Jake Kelly, said: ‘We will be doing everything we can to keep as many services as possible running safely and reliably on Friday, but with such strong winds expected we know that disruption to passengers’ journeys is inevitable. Please consider whether your journey is necessary on Friday, and if possible, re-plan your journey for another day.’

Rail Delivery Group CEO Jaqueline Starr said: ‘Rail companies are working hard to keep people moving safely but journeys will be disrupted, especially on Friday. We’re asking people to plan their travel for a different day if possible or to check and re-check before they travel.’

Station break-in vandals may have risked asbestos

Vandals who broke through the ticket office wall at Workington station may have exposed themselves to asbestos, which was safely sealed inside the structure until they damaged it. Northern has cordoned off the area, and said passengers and staff are safe. The break-in happened at about 02.30 on Wednesday morning. Regional director Chris Jackson said there had been ‘significant damage’ to the office. He continued: ‘It is currently closed while a clean-up operation is underway. It is not yet known what has been taken but we are working to establish this.’ Public Health England urges anyone who comes into contact with asbestos fibres to seek medical advice.  

source= http://www.railnews.co.uk/news/2022/02/18-trains-cancelled-as-storm-eunice.html