Delays after train strikes cows

AN Annan bound train screeched to a halt on Monday after striking cows on the line.

The 8.54 am service had set-off as normal from Carlisle and had not long departed Gretna Green before the incident occurred near Eastriggs.

Some of the animals which had escaped a nearby field were killed in the collision, British Transport Police confirmed. And the train was pictured later on in the morning sitting stationary as rail workers cleaned up the scene.

Posting on X, ScotRail said: “Our 08:54 Carlisle to Dumfries service has come to a stand due to cows on the line. We’re working with the local farmer to help move the cows off the railway.”

Alternative transport was arranged for customers before the track re-opened at around 2 pm.

Phil Campbell, ScotRail customer operations director, said: “We’re sorry to customers who experienced disruption to their journey as a result of this incident, which involved livestock on the line near Annan.

“Our priority was to ensure everyone’s safety and keep people moving, and we worked quickly to arrange alternative transport.

“Anyone delayed by 30 minutes or more is entitled to claim compensation through Delay Repay Guarantee.”