Persistent heavy rain has caused a landslip near Tryfan Junction on the Welsh Highland Railway.

The lanslip is around 4.5 miles away from Caernarfon in North Wales, and the heavy rain recently has caused similar incidents in the area, especially a widely reported one near Nefyn.

The incident is thought to have happened on the 18th December and was found during a full inspection of the line before any trains operated.

Around 100 cubic metres of mud has slipped across the line, which means that Santa trains will continue to run but over a shortened section of the line.

Trains were planned to run between Christmas and New Year, and the railway’s plan for these services will be announced on 23rd December.

Engineers and geotechnical consultants will be on site soon to formulate a plan of action.

Director and General Manager, Paul Lewin commented: “The landslip occurred in a location close to a river which has seen land movements historically. When the railway was rebuilt in this area it was strengthened to better protect it. Early indications are that this worked effectively but that has not prevented a torrent of slurry like mud from being deposited on the line during the intense rain storm. It is pleasing to note that our safety inspection regime identified the problem promptly before any trains operated in the area.”