RAIL passengers who travel between Blackburn and Clitheroe are being warned of delays to their journeys while track improvements are completed.

Network Rail is removing a number of temporary speed restrictions on the line, which have been having an impact on the performance of train services.

As part of the work, jointed railway track will be replaced with continuous rails, giving a smoother, quieter ride.

While the work is taking place rail replacement bus services will operate until November 27.

Northern Rail’s Stuart Rands said: “Passengers will experience more reliable and much smoother journeys once this work is complete.”

Richard Watts, from the Clitheroe Line Community Rail Partnership, said: “The partnership welcomes the work being undertaken by Network Rail on the line and looks forward to the improvements this will bring.

“The partnership has worked hard to ensure the smooth introduction of the rail replacement bus services and will monitor the situation throughout the period.”