A train company serving East Lancashire is among many businesses facing widespread IT issues this morning.

Northern, which serves stations in Blackburn, Accrington, and Burnley, and others, says trains are still running but they will not be able to provide information on disruptions.

Other train providers across the country are also experiencing issues leading to potential short-notice cancellations.

A Northern spokesperson said:"We are currently experiencing widespread IT issues across our entire network, which is linked with the issues affecting many industries and businesses this morning.

"Trains are still running, however information systems may not be showing and we're unable to provide disruption information in the same way as usual.

"We'll continue to add disruption to our X feed when known."

A spokesperson for National Rail added: "Network-wide IT issues are affecting a number of train operators' services this morning.

"As a result, some train operators are unable to access driver diagrams at certain locations, leading to potential short-notice cancellations.

"Additionally, other key systems, including real-time customer information platforms, are also affected.

Airports, businesses, and banks across the world have also experienced issues, with broadcasters also being taken offline.

Ryanair, Europe's largest airline, which operates many flights from Manchester Airport and Leeds/Bradford Airport, has said it is experiencing "disruption across the network."

They said: "If you're due to travel today and have not already checked in for your flight, you can do so at the airport.

"We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused as a result of this global third-party IT outage."

Across the world, major US airlines have been grounded while issues have also been reported in India, Australia, and New Zealand.