Family of geese hold up London commuter trains after waddling onto train tracks

Family of geese wandering onto the tracks at North Sheen station
Stephen Sloan
Sami Quadri19 April 2024

Commuters faced travel disruption in south-west London on Friday morning after a family of geese wandering onto the tracks brought trains to a standstill.

South Western Railway (SWR) alerted passengers to potential cancellations or delays after animals were spotted on the rail line between Mortlake and Richmond.

A driver had to halt his train when a flock of waterfowl ambled onto the tracks at North Sheen station.

Commuter Stephen Sloan posted footage of the rare incident on social media, writing: “No crispy duck pancakes for this diligent @SW_Help driver at #northsheen this morning! For those stuck at Manor Rd crossing it was for a good cause!”

SWR confirmed that all lines have now reopened. However, they added that some services may still be delayed or revised.

A spokesperson for SWR said: “We were informed of animals on the railway between Mortlake and Richmond, all lines have now reopened and trains will begin to call at all stations. While we return to normal running some services may still be delayed or revised.”

Affected passengers can use their tickets at no extra cost on London Underground lines or buses from Clapham Junction to Feltham.

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