Lightning strike disrupts trains between Leeds and Harrogate

A spokesperson for Network Rail said staff from a signal box at Harrogate reported a loss of signalling at 1.19pm due to the strike.

He said: “Engineers are on site at the moment trying to fix the issue. At this point, we do not know how long the disruption will last.

“We apologise to all passengers for any inconvenience caused.”

Northern Rail said it was running rail replacement buses between Harrogate and Leeds and Harrogate and Knaresborough while the disruption continued.

Network Rail said it was likely to continue until at least 5pm, causing disruption for commuters.

Some passengers took to Twitter to vent their frustration. Brandon-Lee Mansueto tweeted: “Burley Park to Leeds - over an hour and no trains at all.”

Biking Amy added: “It’s hard when staff on station don’t know anything.”