Rail passengers in Devon are being advised to check before they travel after train services between Barnstaple and Crediton were suspended due to flooding.

The disruption began on Wednesday 12 November, when remote monitoring systems detected water levels rising above the safety threshold at three bridges and viaducts along the route. One structure, spanning the River Taw, showed water reaching the closure marker, prompting the suspension of all services as a precaution.

Before trains can run again, specialist diving teams will carry out inspections of the affected structures once water levels recede, ensuring that the line remains safe for operations.

A spokesperson for Network Rail said:

“Passengers planning to travel between Barnstaple and Crediton in the coming days are asked to check the status of their journey before travelling at GWR.com as services are currently suspended owing to flooding. We’re working closely with our colleagues at GWR to keep passengers on the move with ticket acceptance in place on local bus routes and replacement bus services in operation where possible. We will continue to monitor the situation and get services safely back up and running as soon as possible.”

Great Western Railway (GWR) has arranged ticket acceptance on nearby bus routes and is running rail replacement services where feasible. Network Rail continues to monitor water levels and structural conditions with the aim of restoring normal service as soon as conditions allow.

Image: Network Rail