Train delays and disruption in Pontefract, Wakefield and Knottingley after broken down train blocks the lines

Train services in Pontefract, Wakefield and Knottingley have been disrupted after a train broke down on the tracks. Stock image.

Train operator Northern said the disruption was caused by a broken down train between Knottingley and Pontefract Monkhill.

The freight train is blocking several lines, Northern said, and leading to disruption across the local network.

As a result, services between Knottingley and Pontefract Monkhill will be cancelled or delayed by up to 50 minutes.

Additional road transport has been arranged between Wakefield Kirkgate and Knottingley, with the first service leaving Wakefield Kirkgate at 12.20pm and calling at Streethouse, Featherstone, Pontefract Tanshelf and Knottingley.

In a statement, Northern said: "Due to a broken down freight train at Pontefract Tanshelf, train services between Leeds and Knottingley are currently being affected in both directions.

"The first affected service is the 10:16 Knottingley to Leeds service which currently stands outside Pontefract Monkhill.

"The freight train is having to be rescued. A rescue train is on it's way from Leeds.

"Road transport has been arranged between Wakefield Kirkgate and Knottingley this will be operated by Ross Travel and T.S Travel.

"The first bus will leave Wakefield Kirkgate at 12:20 and call at Streethouse, Featherstone, Pontefract Tanshelf and Knottingley."

Services between Knottingley, Castleford, Wakefield and Leeds have resumed.

Disruption is expected to continue until at least 2pm today (Monday, April 19).