Rail lines still being inspected following storms
THREE of the four main rail routes out of Inverness were still experiencing disrupton on Sunday morning following Friday and Saturday's gale force winds.
Network Rail staff had to clear more than 400 trees from Scotland's rail network on Friday and Saturday following two destructive storms.
Flooding also washed out tracks in several locations, including Kingussie.
In an update issued shortly after 9am Scotrail said that services heading towards Kyle of Lochalsh, Wick and Perth were still suffering disruption today.
Although a further update has not yet been issued, journeys to the Kyle of Lochalsh now appear to be operating though - with the 10.59am train out of Inverness departing on time. Disruption is still being experienced on the Wick and Perth lines, however.
Speaking at 9.15am, a spokesman said: "Sections of the lines remain suspended due to weather-related debris on the route. A limited service between Inverness and Tain is now running. Inspections between Dingwall and Kyle and Wick-Thurso and Helmsdale continue, and Ardgay-Helmsdale will be checked.
"A small number of other routes are currently suspended or subject to disruption due to the impact of poor weather or planned engineering works. This list is not exhaustive as the situation can change quickly so please check your own journey on the Journeycheck page.
"Services are also suspended between Perth and Inverness (due to flooding at Kingussie). Inspections are ongoing. [There are] replacement buses between Perth-Inverness and Inverness-Kingussie.
"All rail passengers, regardless of their route, should allow extra time and check our website before setting off just in case. Thanks for your understanding and co-operation at this challenging time for Scotland’s transport networks.
"Tickets already purchased for travel on 10th and 11th January may be used at a future date in the next week if that suits you better, subject to terms and conditions. Simply present your unused ticket to gateline or onboard staff."
Last night Scotrail engineers warned that disruption on the Inverness to Perth route was expected to continue all day Sunday.
Go to www.scotrail.co.uk for the latest travel updates. Scotrail adds that services may change at short notice, so people should keep checking the site.
