Network Rail: "There have been no reported injuries"

“At 14:34 today we received a report of a derailment of an empty train between Salford Cresent and Deansgate station in west Manchester. The service, an empty charter service (two class 47 diesel locomotives and five coaches) operated by West Coast Railways, was travelling from Ardwick to Carnforth.

“Our response teams are currently on site along with the emergency services as there have been reports of possible fire. There have been no reported injuries.

“Services out of Manchester Piccadilly heading west towards Newton-le-Willows and Preston are severely impacted as the route is currently blocked.”