Trains crash near Cumnock in Ayrshire

Around 18 wagons on the trains derailed in the incident. Picture: Network Rail

No one was injured in the crash, but some 18 wagons on the trains derailed, with several left on their side and off the track.

One of the locomotives is believed to have run into the rear of the other train.

The line, which had been closed for the weekend for engineering work between Kilmarnock and Dumfries, is expected to remain shut for several days, preventing the resumption of passenger services on Monday.

There were reports a crane would be brought in to move the derailed wagons.

A spokesman for track owner Network Rail said: “At approximately 11:20am, in a Network Rail work site, two ballast carrying trains collided, resulting in the derailment of some wagons of each train.

“No-one was hurt in the incident but it has resulted in some track damage.

“Once the derailed wagons have been recovered the repair work will take approximately three days to complete.

“Therefore it is expected the line will remain closed for a number of days.

“During this time, passenger services will start and terminate at Dumfries and Kilmarnock, and freight traffic will be diverted via the west coast main line and Paisley.”

No one from Direct Rail Services, which operates the locomotive involved, was available for comment.