Sleeper train damaged by rock 'placed' on Glasgow-London rail line

A SLEEPER train travelling between Glasgow and London has been badly damaged after striking a large rock placed on the railway line in Lanarkshire.

British Transport Police (BTP) have launched an appeal for information after the 11.40pm Glasgow Central to London Euston sleeper service struck the rock, which officers believe was placed deliberately on the line, between Rannoch Drive and Smith Avenue in Gowkthrapple shortly before midnight.

The damage to the underside of the train was such that it had to be taken out of service and replaced with another to continue the journey.

Detective Sergeant Grant Cathcart of BTP, who is leading the inquiry, said: "Fortunately, no-one was injured and the train was able to complete its journey to London, although the consequences of such action could have been worse.

"I am appealing for anyone in the area who has information regarding the identity of those who may be responsible to contact me as a matter of urgency."

Trespassing on railway lines carries a fine of up to 1,000.