Oxford–Banbury rail line shut after person struck by train

Rail services between Oxford and Banbury were brought to a halt on Monday morning after a person was struck by a train, prompting a full closure of the line while emergency services responded.

The incident occurred on the route between the two stations, with all lines closed as crews dealt with the situation on site. Trains scheduled to pass through Oxford and Banbury were cancelled, and disruption was expected to continue until at least 11am on January 19.

Passengers were urged to check their journeys before travelling, with station staff and the National Rail real-time journey planner highlighted as sources of up-to-date information on alternative travel options.

Great Western Railway confirmed the cause of the disruption and issued guidance for those affected by the incident. A spokesperson for the operator said:

"A person has been struck by a train, leading to the line being blocked. If you are on board one of the services in this incident and have been affected by this incident or know someone else who needs support, there is always someone to talk to. Contact a Samaritan on 116 123 for free, any time, on any phone. Help is only a phone call away."

To help passengers complete their journeys, train tickets were being accepted on Stagecoach bus services X4 and S4, both of which operate between Oxford and Banbury.

Image: Google Maps