Engineers in Cornwall and Devon have been hard at work repairing damage to lines caused by flooding.

Another heavy rain weather warning has been issued until tomorrow morning, which could further impact the lines and cause longer closures to those already in place.

The work is still ongoing following Storm Chandra, with ballast being washed away in numerous sections along the Barnstaple and Okehampton lines.

Engineers have made significant progress to ensure the ground and ballast beneath the tracks are stable, with work expected to be completed this afternoon.

As a result of the flooding, the line cannot reopen until specialist divers inspect structures along the route to ensure it is safe to use.

The forecasted rain could impact the divers ability to do this, as the water needs to be at a safe, low level.

Exeter St Davids – Barnstaple, Exeter St Davids – Okehampton, and Liskeard – Looe will remain closed until further notice.

Newquay – Par line has reopened, and a limited replacement bus service is in place between Exeter St Davids and Okehampton and between Liskeard and Looe.

Passengers should continue to check before they travel online.

“Travel in Devon and Cornwall will continue to be disrupted into the first week of February as we work to repair storm damage. We’re really sorry for the disruption this is causing for passengers.

“We’ve been able to inspect and reopen the Newquay branch line, however it’s essential to continue checking before you travel as further heavy rain is expected in the area tomorrow.

“Our work to repair the damage on the Barnstaple and Okehampton lines is progressing well. Before we can reopen these lines once this work is complete, we will need to carry out safety inspections, including with the use of divers who assess whether the force of the water has caused any scour damage to bridges. 

“While these lines have been shut, we’ve been able to carry out other essential work to ensure that we’re making the most of the closure, including removing dangerous trees and completing other safety‑critical tasks.

“Please continue to check before travelling for the latest updates.”

Daryn McCombe, director of performance and train service delivery for GWR and director of network operations at Network Rail’s Western route