An Avanti West Coast high-speed train, service 04:28 from Glasgow to Euston, derailed near Shap in Cumbria on the West Coast Main Line around 6:10 AM on November 3rd. The incident, which occurred between Penrith North Lakes and Oxenholme Lake District stations, initially led to the declaration of a major incident by emergency services, although this status was later stood down.

Emergency services, including the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) and British Transport Police (BTP), were swiftly dispatched to the scene. Conflicting reports regarding casualties emerged, with early statements from Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander and Network Rail indicating no reported injuries. However, the NWAS later confirmed that out of a total of 87 patients assessed from the approximately 130 passengers onboard, four sustained minor injuries. Crucially, none required further hospital treatment, and all were discharged from a nearby rest centre or hotel after being safely escorted off the train. The evacuation process was noted to be challenging due to the track being raised high from the ground.

The derailment caused significant disruption across the rail network. All lines between Penrith North Lakes and Oxenholme Lake District were blocked, and Avanti West Coast advised customers not to travel north of Preston, anticipating severe disruption for a number of days. National Rail indicated that trains running between Carlisle and Preston could be delayed by up to 120 minutes or cancelled, with major disruption expected until at least the end of the day of the incident.

While the exact cause of the derailment is subject to an investigation by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB), a landslip is suspected to have occurred prior to the incident. Heavy rainfall in the area was noted to be compounding the issue, though Network Rail has not definitively confirmed the landslip as the cause. First images of the damaged train, showing significant front-end damage and the train positioned between two separate tracks, circulated on social media and rail forums.

Avanti West Coast reiterated their priority was the wellbeing of those onboard and assisting emergency services. Network Rail apologized for the impact on journeys, emphasizing passenger and staff safety on the West Coast Main Line. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander assured the public that her department was working to ensure people could get off the train safely and was in constant touch with relevant authorities. Local MP Tim Farron expressed deep concern for everyone onboard and the emergency service workers. As recovery efforts continue, the focus remains on understanding the cause and restoring full service to the affected lines.