Cable theft disrupts Aberdeen to Inverness rail service

Train disruption is expected to last until Wednesday after up to a mile of cable was stolen from the Aberdeen to Inverness railway line.

The theft forced the suspension of trains between Inverurie and Huntly on Sunday. Network Rail said replacing and reconnecting the stolen cable would take some time.

Replacement bus services are in operation. British Transport Police (BTP) are investigating the theft.

A spokesman for Network Rail said: “Should those responsible be identified we will push for the stiffest penalty possible.

“Cable theft is not only stupid and dangerous, it severely disrupts the network and the travelling public.”

A BTP spokesman said: “What thieves don’t realise is that they’re attempting to steal cable, sometimes live, carrying up to 25,000 volts. Not only are they risking a court appearance, they’re also risking their lives.”