Tragedy as person ‘hit by train’ with disruption to rail services to Manchester Airport

A person was ‘hit by a train’ in Newton-le-Willows this evening (July 21), causing disruption to rail services to Manchester Airport. The person was hit between Warrington Bank Quay and Earlestown, with emergency services currently at the scene.

National Rail said the incident had closed all lines between the two stations and that trains may be cancelled, delayed by up to 45 minutes or revised. The incident was first reported at 5.53pm and disruption is expected until 9pm this evening.

Pictures from the scene show a huge emergency services presence on Wargrave Road, near the train line that runs through Newton-le-Willows. A number of police vehicles and fire engines can be seen lining the road where a cordon is set up.

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An air ambulance was pictured in the nearby Aldi car park on Vulcan Park Way. Eyewitnesses say British Transport Police officers and a Network Rail incident van are also at the scene.

Northern services between Chester and Leeds and Transport for Wales services between Chester and Manchester Airport are among the services affected.

National Rail said “replacement road transport” is currently being procured from Warrington Bank Quay and Manchester Oxford Road for Transport for Wales, with further details to be provided once confirmed.

Passengers can use their tickets on Northern services on any reasonable route in the Manchester area and TransPennine Express services between Warrington Bank Quay and Manchester Airport at no extra cost.

An update from National Rail said: “One person has been hit by a train between Warrington Bank Quay and Earlestown. As emergency services operate, all lines between these stations are closed. Trains may be cancelled, delayed by up to 45 minutes or revised.

“Disruption is expected until approximately 9 p.m. If you’ve been affected by what happened online today, there’s always someone to talk to. You can contact the Samaritans on 116 123 from any phone for a confidential conversation.”

British Transport Police have not confirmed any further details of the incident. The force was approached by Manchester Evening News.