Trains from Oxford to Worcester blocked by track defect

The issue was reported between Moreton-in-Marsh and Honeybourne, blocking the line and affecting journeys between Oxford and Worcester Foregate Street via Evesham.

Great Western Railway (GWR) said the disruption was expected to last until the end of the day, as services may be cancelled, delayed, or diverted.

GWR said: “We have had a report of a possible track defect and trains are unable to run over the affected line until it has been inspected.

“Network Rail are making arrangements to have the track inspected.

“We are sorry for the disruption to your journey today.”

Replacement transport has been requested and GWR advised passengers to check for updates before travelling.

Customers were also told they could use their tickets on alternative routes at no extra cost.

These included CrossCountry services between Oxford and Birmingham New Street, and between Birmingham New Street and Cheltenham Spa via Worcestershire Parkway.

West Midlands Railway services between Birmingham New Street and Worcester Shrub Hill/Worcester Foregate Street were also available to ticket holders.

Passengers at unstaffed stations were encouraged to contact GWR for assistance, and those whose trains were cancelled could use tickets on the two services before or after their original train, regardless of restrictions.

GWR said: “If you are travelling to or from stations between Oxford and Worcester Shrub Hill and wish to postpone your journey, you may use your ticket tomorrow, Tuesday 18 August, at no extra cost.”

If you arrive at your destination 15 or more minutes late because your GWR train was delayed or cancelled, you can apply for Delay Repay compensation.