Train derails on Glasgow–London route, hundreds evacuated in Cumbria

A train from Glasgow to London has derailed between Penrith North Lakes and Oxenholme Lake District in Cumbria.

Train firm Avanti West Coast revealed that at 6:10 a.m. today (Monday, November 3), the 0482 Avanti West Coast service from Glasgow to Euston was reported to have derailed at Shap in Cumbria.

As a result of the derailment, the lines were blocked north of Preston and also advised people not to travel north of Preston today.

The transport secretary Heidi Alexander said that the train derailment has been a major incident, adding, “No injuries have been reported and my team is working tirelessly to make sure that people can get off the train safely.”

The North West Ambulance Service have also dispatched their emergency teams to the scene.

They said, “We are currently assessing the situation and our priority is to ensure people receive the medical help they need as quickly as possible.”

Several train operations have been disrupted and the National Rail has urged passengers to check with their train operator for latest information.

A hotel director told BBC that nearly 130 passengers have been evacuated to his hotel, some of whom seemed to be in shock due to the incident.