DISRUPTION to services going through Bath continued into today, causing problems for early morning commuters heading into and out of west Wiltshire.

Many trains going in and out of Bath were cancelled or delayed due to problems near Oldfield Park station.

A Great Western spokesman said: "Due to a points failure near Oldfield Park, fewer trains are able to run through Bath Spa, impacting an already reduced service.

"Trains between London Paddington and Bristol Temple Meads/Taunton; and between Portsmouth Harbour and Cardiff will continue to call at Bath Spa, Oldfield Park and Keynsham, however journeys may be extended by up to 25 minutes as they pass through the affected area. Other London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads services are continuing to be diverted through Bristol Parkway.

"Services between Great Malvern/Gloucester and Weymouth will operate between Bristol Temple Meads and Gloucester/Great Malvern and between Westbury and Weymouth. 

"Buses will replace trains for all other intermediate stations, including Freshford, Avoncliff and Bradford Upon Avon.

"Network Rail engineers are expected to work throughout the night to repair the points, enabling more trains to be able to operate tomorrow.

"Ticket acceptance for GWR ticket holders has also been agreed with a number of local bus providers. For a full list please visit: www.gwr.com/travel-updates/live-network-updates."

  • Trains were due to run as timetabled from 1.30pm and in time for the evening peak, however there may be some short-notice alterations to early afternoon services, a Network Rail spokesman said.  

Bath Spa station is currently undergoing modernisation work to make way for the arrival of a fleet of new, longer Intercity Express Trains which will enter service later this year; and only one platform is available to use during the periods of work.

The works, due to complete on Sunday, April 23, are currently on target to finish on time.