Train services between Barrow and Lancaster will be cancelled for a large part of next week due to an 'emergency closure'.

The Furness line will be closed from Tuesday, December 3 until the end of Thursday, December 5 to allow for a 'possession' of the route.

A combination of heavy rain and melting snow during Storm Bert last weekend resulted in severe flooding in the Ulverston area, which led to the railway cutting collapsing onto the tracks.

This meant transport between Lancaster and Barrow was cancelled on Sunday and Monday (November 24 and 25).

It was originally feared that trains would not be in operation for a week in the wake of the storm, but Network Rail staff were able to clear over 240 tonnes of earth to see services resume on Tuesday (November 26).

However, Network Rail confirmed at the time that a more permanent fix would be required, which will now be taking place next week.

Before Storm Bert, engineers had been in attendance at the site to stem the flow of a nearby stream which had found its way onto the railway.

The location was being carefully monitored and a speed restriction was in place as a safety precaution. 

Read more: Storm Bert: Barrow, Lancaster line to reopen after repairs | The Mail

The 'already delicate' location was overwhelmed by the volume of water brought about by Storm Bert, which flooded the tracks and damaged the earth of the cutting.

A rail replacement bus service will be provided between Lancaster and Barrow on all three days before train services resume on Friday, December 6.

This was described as being 'essential work' to ensure the ongoing resilience of the line.

Passengers are advised to check www.nationalrail.co.uk to plan their journeys between Barrow-in-Furness and Lancaster.

You can find out more information about the rail replacement services that will be in place by visiting the website here.