More than 20 trains cancelled in East Yorkshire amid leaf-related disruption

More than 20 train services were cancelled in a single day during a week of disruption across East Yorkshire, with passengers in Beverley and Driffield among those most affected.

Northern services on the Hull to Scarborough line faced delays and cancellations over seven days. Some trains passed through intermediate stations without stopping, including Cottingham, Beverley and Driffield, leaving passengers uncertain whether their service would call.

Northern said leaves had fallen on the tracks after two recent storms. When compressed in wet weather, the leaves formed a thin, slippery layer that could cause train wheels to lose grip, the operator said. Drivers had to travel more slowly, and trains were being allowed through several signals only after manual clearance rather than by automated signalling.

Northern said it had altered timetables so certain trains omitted intermediate stops between Hull and Bridlington. The changes were intended to keep services moving safely without destabilising the wider network. The operator advised passengers to check timetables before travelling and said conditions were being reviewed daily. A spokesperson said the company hoped to deliver a better service over the following days.

Coun Matt Rogers said the railway was a lifeline for people who did not drive. He argued that passengers would prefer trains to stop at every station at reduced speeds, even if they ran late, rather than pass through without calling.

Rogers also called for better management of vegetation beside the railway. He said autumn leaves were predictable and claimed vegetation near the line around Driffield was not being cleared. He criticised the region’s rail investment, saying some services felt as if they used trains dating from the 1970s.

Hull and East Yorkshire Liberal Democrat peer Lord Dave McCobb said Northern had cancelled services since the previous Friday and trains had run through Cottingham, Beverley and Driffield without stopping. He expressed concern for commuters, students, people travelling to hospital appointments and passengers trying to get home.

McCobb said he was writing to Northern, arguing that the operator and Network Rail should plan for autumn leaf fall. He also encouraged passengers delayed by the disruption to claim compensation through Delay Repay.

The local concerns come amid wider discussion about train age and investment. Speaking at the Railway Industry Association’s annual conference, Rail Minister Lord Hendy said Britain’s ageing rolling stock urgently needed replacing, with some trains up to 40 years old. He described every train in the north of England as “clapped out” and said replacing them all was a serious investment choice.

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