Trains are running between Exeter and Barnstaple for the first time this month, after Network Rail repaired the damage caused by heavy rain which washed away ballast and put some structures at risk. But Network Rail warned that it would be continuing to monitor the situation, because more rain is forecast for north Devon over the next ten days.

A Great Western Railway Intercity Express has made a surprise appearance on East West Rail, as there continues to be no firm opening date for the restored line between Bicester and Bletchley, which was completed well over a year ago. People in Winslow have been protesting at the continuing lack of trains at their new station, which is being guarded by security officers at an alleged cost of one million pounds a year.