Train disruption continues after Storm Gertrude

The fallen tree in Belford. Picture by Doug Renton

There were a number of issues on the roads this morning, not least an overturned lorry on the A1 near Alnwick, but they largely seem to have been cleared.

But the same cannot be said for the region's railways. A number of services on the East Coast Mainline are subject to lengthy delays and passengers are being advised to change their journeys if possible.

An update at 12.10pm from Virgin Trains East Coast said: "Storm Gertrude is causing high wind speeds across northern England and Scotland. We are working with Network Rail to provide additional resources and implement contingency arrangements. With the strength of the winds expected, railway infrastructure could be damaged as severe winds can blow debris and trees onto tracks and damage equipment such as overhead electric power lines and signals.

"There has been several separate incidents this morning between Berwick-upon-Tweed and Newcastle which have caused damage to overhead power lines, the result of the high wind speeds.

"Virgin Trains services are now running with services north of Darlington subject to delay as a result of speed restrictions having being imposed because of the high winds. A near-normal timetable will operate with delays through the affected area of approximately 30 minutes. Some short-notice cancellations may still be experienced as a result of trains and train crew being out of position.

"Customers travelling this morning north of Newcastle may wish to travel this afternoon. Alternatively tickets dated Friday, January 29, can be used on services on Saturday, January 30. Mutual ticket acceptance is in place with CrossCountry trains on services Newcastle-Edinburgh in both directions for those affected by this disruption.

The downed tree in Belford with Doug Renton.

"We will be providing regular updates to customers through this page or by following @Virgin_TrainsEC on Twitter."

Meanwhile, these pictures, by Belford resident Doug Renton, were taken earlier today. He said: "Strong winds have caused devastation in Belford Jubilee Park and partially blocked the main road."