Network Rail has confirmed services into Manchester Piccadilly have resumed following urgent overnight repairs to damaged overhead lines.

The high-voltage cables failed on Thursday, 16 April, on the approach into the station, with a passing train becoming entangled in a section of wiring, causing significant disruption to local and national rail travel in and out of Manchester.

Over 400 metres of overhead line equipment required attention in a complex section of the railway. Work to remedy this damage required a 12-hour closure for specialist teams to complete their work.

Services began later than usual on Sunday, 19 April, with the line opening fully at 11 am. All services, including long-distance trains to London, are now operating, though passengers are being advised to check before travelling.

“I’m sorry to passengers who’ve been impacted by the disruption since the overhead lines failed at Manchester Piccadilly on Thursday. Since that happened our teams of engineers have been working around the clock to repair the damaged 400-metre stretch of high-voltage wires which provide power to electric trains.

“I’d like to thank people for their continued patience and would advise anyone planning to travel into Manchester today to check National Rail Enquiries for the latest travel information.”

Chris Wright, Network Rail North West route director.