Teams at the site of the Bedford train collision have been working to recover the train and repair subsequent damage to the line.

The section of the affected line is scheduled to resume passenger service on the 29th June.

Teams have removed overhead line equipment and constructed temporary access for two 110-tonne rail-mounted Kirow cranes to lift the trains and carriages.

A full inspection has been underway, with track, signalling and overhead line equipment repaired and final safety checks carried out.

Both East Midlands Railway and Greater Thameslink Railway will be releasing updated service information ahead of Monday.

It is expected that full timetables will resume; however, services will still be subject to last-minute cancellations and alterations.

Journeys can also be checked via National Rail.

“This has been a complex and challenging recovery operation, and I’d like to thank our engineers and colleagues across the railway for the professionalism, skill, and dedication they’ve shown in safely completing the work as quickly as possible to get passengers moving again.  

“Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by the incident, including driver Shaun Burton’s loved ones, and those still recovering.  

“With repairs now complete, we will be able to reopen the Midland Main Line on Monday. We understand the disruption that this closure has caused, and we’re grateful to passengers for their patience while we carried out this essential work. 

“This week’s extreme heat has also presented additional challenges for the railway, so, we’re asking passengers to only travel today if their journey is absolutely necessary and to plan ahead, check the latest information, and take care in the hot conditions.”

Mark Budden, East Midlands Route Director for Network Rail