Large emergency services presence after two trains collide in rural area of Wales

21 October 2024, 22:04 | Updated: 22 October 2024, 06:54

Emergency services are at the scene after two trains collided near Llanbrynmair, in rural mid-west Wales.

Network Rail and Transport for Wales says it happened near Powys art about 7.30 this evening.

The incident involved the 6.31 service from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth and the 7.09 service from MacyhnIleth to Shrewsbury.

Local residents have reported a large emergency services presence including road ambulances and an air ambulance.

A coastguard helicopter is also at the scene, as well as firefighters.

A spokeswoman for the British Transport Police has said a low-speed collision has taken place between two trains.

Their statement reads: "Officers were called to the line near Llanbrynmair at 7.29pm today (21 October) to reports of a low-speed train collision involving two trains.

"Paramedics, fire and rescue, and Dyfed Powys Police are all in attendance and the incident is ongoing. "

Transport for Wales said: "Due to an emergency incident between Machynlleth and Caersws, rail replacement is in operation however we are unable to call at Caersws."

A joint statement for Network Rail and Transport for Wales said: "Emergency services are responding to an incident near Llanbrynmair in Powys, Mid Wales, involving two trains - the 18.31 Transport for Wales service from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth and the 19.09 Transport for Wales service from MacyhnIleth to Shrewsbury.

"The line is closed as they carry out their work. Our main priority is the safety of our passengers and colleagues, and we are doing all we can to support the emergency services as they respond to the incident.

"We would encourage passengers to plan ahead and check journeys before travelling via National Rail Enquiries."

Dyfed-Powys Police has asked motorists to avoid the A470, from Carno to Commins Coch.

It is likely that the line will be closed tomorrow.

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The First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, said her "thoughts are with those involved" in a crash between two trains near Llanbrynmair.

"My thoughts are with all those involved in the rail incident in Powys earlier this evening", she said in a statement on X.

"I would like to thank the emergency services for their response and have asked to be kept informed of any developments throughout the night."