Welwyn Hatfield commuters delayed after train hits bike

COMMUTERS were hit with delays this morning (Wednesday) across Welwyn Hatfield after a train struck an abandoned bicycle on the tracks.

The 5.10am from Peterborough to Kings Cross hit the object, which was on the lines near Alexandra Palace station in London, at around 6.23am.

Passengers on the train, estimated to be travelling at around 90mph when the incident occurred, heard a loud bang, and experience a sudden stop as the emergency brakes deployed.

A bicycle wheel was later found caught up under the train and it is thought the bike had been abandoned on the tracks.

Trains were delayed for up to 25 minutes, but First Capital Connect users suffered further problems later in the morning on the Herford loop due to a signal failure at Cuffley at 8.40am.

A FCC spokesman said: “Although it is highly unlikely a bicycle would cause a derailment, it is hugely alarming for the passengers and driver and causes significant damage to the underside of the train.

“This irresponsible behaviour also delayed our trains most of the morning by 20-25 minutes as every service into London had to run along the one remaining southbound line usually reserved for stopping services.”

First Capital Connect and the British Transport Police (BTP) are examining CCTV footage.

A BTP spokesman said: “I would urge anyone who was in or around the area this morning, and who saw any suspicious activity.”

To contact British Transport Police call Freefone 0800 40 50 40.