THE torrential rain and floods has had a serious effect on rail services on the line through Malvern, Colwall and Ledbury.

Services between Malvern and Ledbury were suspended on Friday after the rain washed away an embankment near Ledbury, Central Train services between Malvern and Birmingham were not affected, and a bus service was laid laid on between Malvern and Hereford, calling at Colwall and Ledbury. Today (Wednesday) the line re-opened, but with a limited timetable.

First Great Western services will be seriously disrupted until August 6, at the earliest, due to extensive damage between Oxford and Worcester.

Hundreds of engineers are working around the clock to repair the damage to the Cotswold Line between Oxford and Worcester. Embankments and cuttings which have been washed away will be rebuilt, damaged bridges repaired and track and signalling systems replaced before the railway can reopen safely.

For up to date information on rail services contact National Rail Inquiries on 08457 484950 or log onto www.nationalrail.co.uk.