Merseyrail has apologised for the shutdown of its network this morning amid snowy conditions.
There were no trains running on any line of the network during the morning rush hour, with no replacement buses available either. It meant thousands of people around the region either had to find alternative ways to get to work or had to work from home.
Merseyrail has said sorry for the problems, which stem from how the network is powered and how this power source is affected by snow, ice and freezing temperatures. Services are now starting to resume on some lines.
READ MORE: Heavy snow causes Merseyrail cancellations, school closures and travel disruption - live updates
Merseyrail acting Managing Director Jane English said: "Due to significant snowfall overnight across the Liverpool City Region, all services on the Merseyrail network were suspended this morning.
"We apologise to passengers who are affected by this suspension. The Merseyrail network operates by using an electric-powered third rail. When there is snow or ice on the third rail it prevents the trains from picking up power.
"We have also been unable to provide rail-replacement buses due to road conditions. Many bus operators are also suspending and cancelling services due to the weather conditions.
"We have been working flat out this morning to clear the tracks. As soon as that process is complete, we will be able to lift the suspension of services. Our teams have a winter weather plan that they are working to, ensuring we can get services back and running as soon as possible. Passengers should continue to check our website, app or social media channels for the latest travel advice."
While there were no Merseyrail services available anywhere for much of the morning, some lines are starting to see trains run again. The first trains are back running on the Hunts Cross to Southport line, which is working towards a full timetable again and this is also the case on the Ellesmere Port line.
The first train has now set off on the West Kirkby line. Merseyrail says its staff are working hard to get the full network back up and running as soon as it is safe to do so.
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