NORTHERN services between Settle and Carlisle are likely to be disrupted for several hours after a train struck and killed a bull this morning suffering “significant” damage – operators say.

The train, which was travelling between Settle and Carlisle, hit the bull shortly after 9.15am this morning near Ribblehead.

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The bull sadly died as a result of the collision and the train suffered significant damage and has been removed from service.

At the 12 the lines were still blocked and efforts to remove the bull from the line are ongoing.

According to Northern, all services from Leeds to Carlisle are suspended and rail replacement buses are in operation.

Customers have been advised to check carefully before travelling on the route today and to allow extra time for journeys.

Tony Baxter, regional director for Northern, said: “The remote location and nature of the incident means it has been difficult to get the line up and running again.

“We continue to work with colleagues from Network Rail to return services to the line as quickly as possible.”

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“I’d like to thank our customers in advance for their patience and understanding during this unusual incident.”

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