CrossCountry to run full train service after power outage causes major disruption

CrossCountry to Provide Full Service on Monday

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CrossCountry to provide full train service on Monday following Sunday's major disruption

Image source: PA

Image caption: CrossCountry says it will run a full train service on Monday following major disruption to services across the country.

By Elliot Ball, West Midlands

Published 23 August 2026

Train operator CrossCountry will run a full train service on Monday following major disruption to its services across the UK on Sunday. The operator plans to operate a "very limited number of trains" from around 18:00 BST on Sunday evening, and a full service on Monday.

This follows a power outage that affected its control centre in Birmingham, leading to mass cancellations across the network.

A CrossCountry spokesperson stated, "Our key priority is now to restore as close to a normal service as possible for our customers tomorrow." They added:

"With most facilities now reinstated, we are planning to operate a very limited number of services from around 18:00 this evening, primarily on routes towards Leicester and Derby. Planning is underway to support a full train service on Monday..."

Customers advised to check their journey

The operator has urged customers to check their journey before travelling. Customers delayed by 30 minutes or more may be entitled to compensation. While those choosing not to travel can claim a refund from their original point of purchase.

Image caption: Earlier on Sunday, customers were told CrossCountry cancelled 'almost all' UK services after a power cut.

Stranded passenger's experience

Andy Burton, from Worcester, was travelling back from Cromford to Worcester but only reached Derby before his journey ended abruptly. He's spent the night in a budget hotel, hoping for travel home tomorrow.

He shared: "It was only once I had arrived at Derby that a member of staff told me my alternative route via Leicester had also been cancelled..." "I am hoping the train service from Derby to Birmingham New Street, and then onwards towards Worcester, resumes tomorrow."

National Rail Update

Following the power cut, National Rail reported at 18:13 BST that CrossCountry services between Peterborough, Cambridge and Stansted Airport would run on Sunday evening. It also stated the operator had resumed an hourly train service from Birmingham New Street to Leicester and Derby.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander expressed her pleasure at the resumption of some trains, "I am pleased to hear some trains are set to run tonight, and a full timetable expected to resume tomorrow." She acknowledged passengers should check their journeys before travel and thanked engineers for their tireless work minimizing disruption.