NETWORK Rail have announced that the efforts to recover the derailed train carriages will take 'weeks rather than days'.

Network Rail also say to expect 'major' disruptions for all rail services between Carlisle, Newcastle, Appleby and Skipton.

The incident, which took place at just after 8pm on Wednesday, October 19 saw several wagons leave the tracks and come to rest on an embankment and in the river Petteril.

Network Rail have said that the challenge of recovering the train's wagons and undertaking the necessary repairs will 'take weeks rather than days'.

Network Rail is also working with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch to ascertain how the train's wagons left the track.

No one was injured, but in the midst of the repairs and recovery operations the railway will 'remain closed in both directions'.

Rail replacement buses will also continue running to keep people on the move in the aftermath of the incident.

Network Rail's North West route director Phil James said: "On the rare occasions trains leave tracks like this it can cause extensive damage and unfortunately this incident is no exception.

“I understand this will be extremely frustrating for passengers who rely on this crucial rail link from east to west linking Carlisle and Newcastle, as well as south to Skipton."

"Across the rail industry we’re working hard to keep people on the move through rail replacement buses while we work as fast as we can to restore the railway for passengers and freight.”

Kerry Peters, regional director for Northern said: "We are working closely with Network Rail to monitor the situation and provide the latest information to our passengers as to how they can still travel across the region.

"Customers should check before they travel and plan for longer journey times.

"We will provide updates on our website.” 

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