The derailment of part of a London-bound Avanti West Coast train near Shap in Cumbria, in which four people were slightly hurt, is suspected to have been caused by a landslip.

The derailment of the leading power car early yesterday also blocked the down line, and all services will remain suspended between Preston and Carlisle today, Network Rail said.

The train was the 04.28 AWC service from Glasgow Central to London Euston.

Avanti West Coast said: ‘There were 86 people plus our train crew on board. All passengers and colleagues were evacuated to the nearby Shap Wells Hotel.

‘All those on board were assessed by paramedics, and four were treated for minor injuries. Thankfully, none required hospital treatment and all were discharged, and we’ve now provided transport for customers to continue their journey south or return north.’

AWC managing director Andy Mellors added: ‘Our main priority is the safety and wellbeing of our customers and colleagues following this serious incident.

‘I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation and gratitude for the actions of our colleagues on board which has been warmly received and appreciated by customers. 

‘I would also like to thank our staff who responded, the emergency services, Network Rail and the local hotel who laid on facilities for everyone on board. We are now ensuring we provide support to those affected.

‘It has also been confirmed by Network Rail that a suspected landslip took place on the track prior to the derailment, with an investigation now starting into the exact cause by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch. The Office of Rail and Road also dispatched an inspector to the site.’

What do you think? Click here to let us know.