NETWORK Rail has warned of major delays on a rail route out of Edinburgh after a fire damaged signal cables.

Disruption is expected on the East Coast Main Line, which connects Edinburgh to London and Newcastle, as fire crews tackle the blaze on the line near Stevenage.

In a post on Twitter/X, Network Rail East Coast wrote: “The fire service are tackling flames in our signal cables near Stevenage.

“Our teams are on standby to start repairs as soon as it is safe.

“We regret that major delays to trains are expected for the rest of today.”

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Meanwhile, London North Eastern Railway warned commuters “do not travel” due to the severity of the fire.

Pictures from the scene show large flames on the side of the tracks, while plumes of black smoke fill the air.

The Edinburgh Waverley media team warned travellers of the disruption, urging them to check their train operator’s latest travel advice before departing.

A spokesperson wrote: “Major delays are expected on the East Coast Main Line for the rest of today, due to a fire damaging signalling cables near Stevenage.

“Check your train operator’s latest travel advice before you leave the house.”