GWR - Storm Bert

We promised to keep you updated as the impact of Storm Bert continues to be felt.

While most lines have now reopened, both the Barnstaple and Okehampton branch lines remain closed and are likely to remain so until at least Thursday 28 Nov. High water levels in the River Yeo to the north of Crediton means Network Rail divers aren’t yet able to ascertain the damage to a rail bridge over the river, so the lines remain closed.

We are operating a rail shuttle service from Exeter St Davids to Crediton, and a limited rail replacement service between Exeter and Barnstaple/Okehampton. These taxis/buses will run directly between Exeter and Barnstaple/Okehampton respectively and will not call at any intermediate stations, including Crediton. We also have ticket acceptance on certain local bus routes; more information can be found at www.gwr.com/check.

The line between Bristol Parkway and Swindon also remains closed due to flooding. As a result our South Wales-London service is reduced to an hourly frequency, and continues to run on a diversionary route adding around 45 minutes to journey times. Similarly we expect this to remain in place until Thursday 28 Nov at the earliest.

Tickets dated for travel today can be used tomorrow (Weds 27 Nov). There is also heavy rain forecast overnight this evening into tomorrow and with water levels already very high there is the chance for further disruption, so we’re advising customers to check before they travel at www.gwr.com/check, or through our social media accounts at www.x.com/gwrhelp and www.x.com/networkrailwest.

As ever if there’s anything we can do to help, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Best wishes

Tom & Heledd

Thomas Lydon | Public Affairs Manager | Great Western Railway
E: Thomas.Lydon@GWR.com | M: 07912 299269

Heledd Iolo, Senior Public Affairs Manager, Network Rail Western
E: Heledd.Iolo@networkrail.co.uk M: 07894 992472GWR - Storm Bert

Rail services across the GWR network are severely affected by the impacts of Storm Bert. We’re very sorry for the inconvenience and disruption to journeys.

 

As of this morning multiple lines are still closed due to flooding, fallen trees and other blockages, so our advice to customers is do not travel, with disruption expected to last until at least the end of today (Monday 25 Nov).

 

Network Rail and GWR teams are working hard across the network to inspect lines as the morning light improves, and will look to reopen lines as quickly as possible. Customers with tickets for yesterday (Sun 24) and today (Mon 25) will be able to use them on Tues 26 and Weds 27 at no extra charge, including on peak-time services, or claim a full refund.

 

The latest travel information is available at www.gwr.com/check and you can also find updates on our social media channels at www.x.com/gwrhelp and www.x.com/networkrailwest.