TRAIN services on the Manchester-Clitheroe line have been severely delayed this morning after a cable theft on the line.

Cancellations and long delays hit Blackburn, Darwen and Ribble Valley passengers with message boards saying the problem was due to a theft at Bromley Cross.

A loss of signalling was reported between Bradshaw Gate Tunnel and Entwistle - between Bolton and Darwen - at 10.30pm last night.

Initial reports suggested the failure was down to cable theft or a blown fuse and Network Rail sent staff to walk the track and check for the cause.

At 2am they discovered two cables - which have copper inside - had been cut and about 50 yards of signal and power cable stolen.

Staff were then sent to find replacements from local depots and by 6am the new cables had been put in and 'thorough' safety checks were taking place.

However, this morning one set of signal points on the line are still not responding and Network Rail is currently investigating whether a third cable theft has taken place.

A spokesman said signalling is being done 'manually' which is causing the delays to commuters throughout East Lancashire.