Metrolink racing to restore full service before thousands leave Parklife as overhead line damage causes chaos

Metrolink is racing to restore full tram services before thousands of music fans are set to travel home from tonight's Parklife festival. Football fans attending tonight's Soccer Aid game at Old Trafford are also set to face disruption.

Damage to an overhead line has caused chaos on the Metrolink system, on one of the busiest weekends of the year. The Bury line, which will be used by those attending Parklife, is currently suspended.

Replacement buses have been arranged for those travelling from Victoria to Heaton Park for the festival. The Ashton line had been impacted but is now operating as normal.

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But due to the problems at Victoria, the Oldham and Rochdale line is currently suspended between the city centre and Westwood, and the East Didsbury line service is only travelling to Exchange Square. The Eccles line is operating to St Peter's Square, while the Manchester Airport line is only travelling to Cornbrook.

Metrolink is urging passengers to check before they travel. A spokesperson for Transport for Greater Manchester said: "Due to overhead line damage at Victoria, there is disruption on several Metrolink lines. The Bury line is currently suspended.

"The Ashton line while initially impacted is now running as normal. Services changes are in place on a number of other lines.

"Additional shuttle buses for those heading to Parklife will be operating from Victoria Station, with extra staff on hand to assist passengers. TfGM is working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

"In the meantime, passengers are advised to check TfGM’s website for the latest travel updates."

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