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Metrolink mayhem: Thousands of Manchester commuters left stranded after tram service delays due to… ‘ice’

By Mancunian Matters staff

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Thousands of Manchester workers have been left stranded this morning as ice has caused delays of up to one hour across metrolink tram services.

Commuters have voiced their anger on Twitter after ice formed on overhead power lines causing huge delays from around 8am.

Many have slammed Transport for Greater Manchester for their failings to prevent disruption from frost and have inundated their Twitter page with their complaints.

One Twitter user, Paul Duxbury posted: “@OfficialTfGM hopeless! A minor frost and #metrolink fails. Can you explain why you think that is acceptable? #fail” as TfGm replied: “We are to review this morning situation with the operator and will have more information later today.”

Other Metrolink users complained of ticket machines not working at Prestwich and Chorlton with others having to wait around 45 minutes for a tram with no ‘info screens or information for customers’.

In a statement on Transport for Greater Manchester’s website, they said: “Due to ice on the overhead lines we are currently experiencing delays to all services.

“Due to a network rail fault, a service is running between Timperley and Bury only. Some passengers may experience delays. Tickets and passes will be accepted on the 263 bus service.

“Metrolink apologise for the inconvenience this may cause to your journey.”

Other services affected include Piccadilly and Eccles Via Media City UK with some passengers experiencing delays

Passengers travelling between Rochdale and East Didsbury are experiencing delays with an alternative bus route on the 82, 83, 182 and 183 bus services available.

Tickets will be accepted on the 85 and 86 for passengers travelling from East Disbury.

Delays are also on the service between Bury and Ashton via Piccadilly with tickets accepted on the 98 and 135 bus services.

There is now a replacement bus service running between Timperley to Altrincham (Barrington Road, Stand D). Passengers must have a valid ticket or pass to travel.

Image courtesy of The Laird of Oldham via Flickr, with thanks.

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