GIGANTIC icicles in a railway tunnel stopped trains between Worcester and Hereford as passengers faced a morning of delay and disruption.

A photo, shared by West Midlands Trains, shows the tunnel near Colwall full of icicles suspended from the ceiling. 

The icicles were deemed to pose a danger to trains travelling between Worcester and Hereford so the line had to be closed temporarily while Network Rail officials cleared the obstruction.

The ice hazard came as temperatures plunged across the region. Birmingham New Street was also affected by the closure of the line.

A spokesperson for the station said: "We’re sorry for disruption between Worcester & Hereford this morning. When icicles form inside railway tunnels it can be unsafe for trains to enter. We’re on our way to Colwall tunnel and hope to reopen the line ASAP."

A spokesperson from Network Rail, said: “We’re sorry to passengers disrupted between Worcester and Hereford this morning while our staff responded to reports of icicles in Colwall railway tunnel. After clearing the icicles, the railway at Colwall was fully reopened just after 8.30am.

“In cold weather, icicles on tunnels and bridges can cause damage to trains and track equipment, so it’s important we remove them to keep the railway running safely and smoothly for passengers and freight.”

A spokesperson for West Midlands Trains shared the image of the icy tunnel and said the image showed 'the extent of the icicles in the tunnel near Colwall'.

They added: "Given the size and potential damage this could cause, the line was closed until Network Rail were able to clear them and check the tunnel. Apologies for any inconvenience caused."