A freight train has derailed in Bilbrook, Staffordshire, and is causing widespread major disruption this morning.

The derailment happened earlier this morning and has blocked the line between Wolverhampton and Stafford / Shrewsbury.

Major disruption is expected until the end of the day.

The derailment has damaged overhead wires and has also knocked over the supports which keep them in the air.

Avanti West Coast says that its London Euston to Edinburgh and London Euston to Holyhead services are affected, but no further travel advice has been released.

CrossCountry says that its Reading and Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly services are also affected but have yet to issue any advice.

London Northwestern Railway says that its Birmingham New Street – Liverpool Lime Street services are affected, with passengers advised to use rail replacement buses that are in operation.

Transport for Wales’ Birmingham International – Shrewsbury, Chester, Manchester Piccadilly, Aberystwyth and Pwllhelli / Holyhead services are affected with ticket acceptance in place with LNWR and CrossCountry as well as rail replacement buses in operation.

Please check with your train operator for detailed travel advice.