Commuter chaos at Swindon station after power line damage on London line

By Jamie Hill - 17 October 2018

Community

Commuters at Swindon Station are facing massive delays today after a test train damaged power cables last night (Tuesday).

Although some services have resumed, travellers are likely to be affected all day, Network Rail said.

The disruption has affected passengers as far as south-west Wales, Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth and Penzance, Great Western Railway (GWR) said.

Network Rail said it was caused by "500m of extensive damage caused to overhead power lines in the Hanwell area".

A statement released by GWR said "Some of the lines have reopened and a reduced train service is starting to operate into and out of London Paddington following last night’s incident with a test train, however delays are expected to last for at least the rest of the day.
"Customers are advised to only travel if necessary and check before travelling. Tickets for GWR services today will also be valid for tomorrow, should customers choose to postpone their journey. Refunds will be given for those who choose not to travel.
"GWR tickets are still being accepted from London Waterloo, London Marylebone and London Euston for travel on South Western Railway, Chiltern Railways, Virgin Trains, West Midlands Railway and Transport for Wales.
"Heathrow Express is operating a limited service."

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