HUNDREDS of passengers travelling to and from Liverpool Lime Street Station suffered long delays yesterday after a light aircraft crashed into the West Coast Mainline.

The aircraft hit power lines above the West Coast tracks between Rugeley and Stafford shortly before midday, killing at least three people who had been aboard the plane. All rail services on the line between Rugby and Stafford remained suspended last night.

British Transport Police warned that the line was unlikely to be fully repaired this weekend.

Rush hour services from London’s Euston station to Liverpool Lime Street were cancelled.

Speaking at Euston, Michael Downes, 44, from Warrington, said: “I was supposed to be home with my family by now instead I’m stuck here and don’t know how long before I get back.

“I know it’s an accident, it’s nobody’s fault, but where’s the help? Yes, I think they could be doing more for us, a free coffee or sandwich would be nice round about now.”

Virgin Trains diverted its services via Birmingham and Wolverhampton, adding up to 40 minutes to journey times which normally take two hours and 10 minutes between Liverpool and London.

The company said all tickets would be valid for travel with other train operators or could be used today.

A Virgin Train spokesman said: “In the early stages train services were cancelled, but we are now running a regular service as we are able to run via the West Midlands.”

He said the disruption had affected less people than a normal Friday because of the reduction in business travellers due to the festive break.