Nine-day closure of major railway line begins

A major railway line has closed for nine days, with rail passengers urged to plan their journeys ahead of travel.

The Trent Valley line between Rugby in Warwickshire and Stafford in Staffordshire is closed from Saturday until 1 June for essential improvement works.

Network Rail said teams would be carrying out works to "improve the reliability and resilience" of the railway.

A spokesperson added no direct trains would run on the line between the two stations, with diversions and rail replacement buses in place throughout the closure.

Works include new tracks being installed near Atherstone, as well as waterproofing works to a bridge over the River Anker, near Tamworth.

Repairs are also taking place on Rugeley Trent Valley station's footbridge.

Gary Walsh, Network Rail director, said: "Our essential improvements between Stafford and Rugby will help to deliver a smoother and more reliable railway for passengers and freight services.

"We're asking passengers to plan ahead at National Rail Enquiries or with their train operator, and I'd like to thank everyone for their patience while we deliver these vital upgrades."

No Avanti West Coast or London Northwestern Railway services will run between the two stations, with rail replacement buses and alternative train services in operation.

Follow BBC Stoke & Staffordshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.