Fire service reveal the reason behind Hartlepool blaze which disrupted train services

Cleveland Fire Brigade have confirmed they were called to reports of a fire near Tees Bay Retail Park at 1.20pm on Tuesday (February 1).

The fire service has said that approximately 1000sq m of grass was alight with trains in the are affected by the blaze.

A spokesperson said: “We were called at 13.20 on 01/02/2022 to reports of a fire near to Tees Bay Retail Park, Hartlepool.

"We sent two fire engines from Hartlepool. Approx 1000sq m of grass alight.

"Trains were affected and Network Rail were informed. We left the scene at 15.08.”

Rail operator Northern said just before 3pm on Tuesday that the track between Middlesbrough and Sunderland was blocked at Seaton Carew, resulting in delays for passengers.

The track was fully reopened by 4.40pm and services were beginning to returning to normal although disruption was expected to last until at least 6pm.

The route of the 8pm Hexham to Middlesbrough service, which was due to stop at Hartlepool and Seaton Carew, was also altered to end at Newcastle.

Northern said: “Services between Middlesbrough and Newcastle via Hartlepool are being disrupted in both directions due to a fire next to the track at Seaton Carew."

It added: “Train services running through these stations are returning to normal but some services will still be delayed. Disruption is expected until 18:00 01/02.”

Customers who experienced delays of 15 minutes or more have been urged to claim compensation by logging on to www.northernrailway.co.uk/delayrepay

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