ALL rail lines have now reopened between Bolton and Preston after a body was found on the tracks.

The lines were closed for much of the morning while emergency services dealt with the incident, which happened at Lostock at around 6.20am, after it was reported that a body was spotted by a member of staff at the station.

Paramedics pronounced one person dead at the scene, and a police investigation has been launched to establish the cause of death.

A British Transport Police spokesman said: "Officers were called to the lines in Bolton at 6.20am this morning following reports of a body close to the tracks.

"Paramedics also attended, but sadly a person has been pronounced dead at the scene.

"Officers are currently working to establish the circumstances behind their death.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 79 of 5/2/19."

The incident has caused significant disruption on the line between Preston and Bolton, as no trains were able to run through Lostock.

However the lines have now reopened.

Trains through these stations may still be cancelled, delayed by up to 20 minutes or diverted, Northern has said

Rail replacement services have been organised between Bolton and Preston.

They will also run between Wigan and Bolton, via Westhoughton.

Passengers from Bolton and Manchester can also divert via Blackburn for Preston and Wigan.

And similarly passengers at Preston can also divert via Blackburn for Bolton and Manchester.

Northern is expecting that disruption will last until 11am.

Anyone who has been delayed for 15 minutes or more can claim compensation at northernrailway.co.uk/delayrepay.

More to follow...