Overnight cable theft causes disruption to trains

Rail passengers face disruption and cancellations for “several hours” after an overnight cable theft, Network Rail has said.

Train services between Airdrie in North Lanarkshire and Bathgate in West Lothian are facing disruption on Tuesday, after ScotRail said a team of engineers are inspecting a fault between Caldercruix and Drumgelloch.

The rail operator said replacement bus services are running.

Network Rail said it is working with British Transport Police (BTP) to trace those responsible.

It said on X: “Airdrie-Bathgate rail services are being disrupted due to overnight cable theft, with no trains running between those stations.

“The theft has affected the power supply to our signals (the railway’s traffic lights), which allow trains to run safely.

“Our engineers are working quickly to repair the damage, though disruption is likely for several hours.

“We’re working with British Transport Police to investigate and identify those responsible.”

ScotRail is urging passengers to check the status of their route using its journey tracker.

A spokesperson for British Transport Police said: “Officers were called at around 6.30am today to reports of cable theft at Airdrie railway station.

“Inquiries are ongoing. Anyone with information that could help police should text BTP on 61016, or call 0800 40 50 40, using the reference 102 of February 24.”

ScotRail has been approached for comment.