Two trains crash in Wales as emergency services race to the scene

Emergency services have rushed to a scene in mid Wales following after two trains crashed into each other on a remote railway line.

Currently, all lines are shut down between Shrewsbury and Machynlleth due to the “operational incident” on the Cambrian line just outside Llanbrynmair. It is not yet known whether there have been any casualties.

Coastguard helicopters have been sighted above the incident site, seemingly illuminating the path for responders at the scene.

Disruptions are anticipated until the end of the day as train schedules are either cancelled or revised.

A spokesperson for British Transport Police confirmed: ” Officers were called to the line near Llanbrynmair at 7.29pm today (October 21) 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.”

Mid and West Wales Fire Service are also at the scene, while Dyfed-Powys Police has asked motorists to avoid the A470, from Carno to Commins Coch, which is currently closed. Drivers have been asked to find alternate routes.

A spokesperson for Transport for Wales added: “Due to a operational incident in the Talerddig area, services will experience severe disruption. Emergency services and Network Rail are on site.

“Services between Shrewsbury and Aberystwyth will be cancelled until further notice, rail replacement in operation. Due to road closures we are unable to call at Caersws station until further notice.

“Services between Machynlleth and Pwllheli will run as normal. Please note rail replacement may experience delays and disruption due to emergency services on the main road.”

Transport for Wales and Network Rail issued a new joint statement shortly after. It read: “Emergency services are responding to an incident near Llanbrynmair in Powys, Mid Wales, involving two trains – the 6.31pm Transport for Wales service from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth and the 7.09pm Transport for Wales service from Macyhnlleth 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.”