LIGHTENING has damaged railway signalling systems causing train disruption throughout East Lancashire.

The bad weather hit systems at Blackpool North, causing all lines to be blocked.

A Northern spokesman said services running to Colne are affected.

The spokesman said: "Train services running to and from this station will be cancelled or delayed by up to 30 minutes.

"Disruption is expected until 8pm.

"Due to loss of signalling at Blackpool North all services that arrive and depart from this station are being disrupted.

Blackpool South line is not affected.

"Road replacement transport has been requested with buses running from Preston calling at all booked stations to Blackpool and also will run from Blackpool calling all booked stations to Preston. Please see screens for bus times.

"Passengers are advised to listen for annoucements and check information screens for up dates where possible for your service today."