LIVE: Train passengers face delays due to 'track defect' in Stockport - latest updates

There are delays on the railways this afternoon due to a track defect in Stockport.

A speed restriction is currently in place in the area. It's thought the defect is in Heaton Norris.

It means delays of 20 minutes are being experienced by passengers, with National Rail also warning trains could be diverted or even cancelled.

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Currently operators Avanti, CrossCountry, East Midlands, Northern, TransPennine Express, and Transport for Wales are all affected.

This is a breaking news story, please check the liveblog below for updates.

"The following lines of route will be affected in both directions:

"Manchester Piccadilly - Hazel Grove services will be cancelled for the remainder of the day. Customers for these services should board alternative Buxton services.

"Manchester Piccadilly - Buxton will be a reduced service throughout the day."

This is the advice being given to East MIdlands passengers. We'll have more from other operators shortly:

"Trains running through the area in the Liverpool direction may be diverted between Sheffield and Manchester Piccadilly. Delayed of up to 20 minutes are expected.

"Trains running through the area in the Nottingham direction can run normally between Manchester Piccadilly and Sheffield.

"You should continue to travel as originally planned however your journey may be delayed by 20 minutes."

A statement from National Rail said: "A speed restriction over a defective track is in place in the Stockport area. Journeys running through this station may be cancelled, delayed by