RAIL services running through Middlesbrough were disrupted this morning after the station was not unlocked by staff.

Passengers were warned to expect delays or cancellations until 9am as the station had not been unlocked by First Transpennine Express staff, preventing access to train crew and customers.

Northern Rail have said services are now returning to normal but cancellations can still be expected.

A spokesperson for Northern said: "All services through Middlesbrough station are currently being disrupted as the station had not been unlocked by First Transpennine Express staff, preventing access to train crew and customers.

"First Transpenine Express have advised that station staff were on site at 6.50am, however short notice alterations and cancellations can still be expected while we work on recovering the service."