**Travel Mayhem: Manchester Commuters Face Major Disruptions** Commuters heading into Manchester this morning are facing significant travel disruptions due to a points failure at Earlestown. The incident has led to the closure of railway lines connecting Manchester, Liverpool, and Warrington Bank Quay. Passengers are being warned to expect delays and cancellations that could last for several hours. The disruption began early this morning, affecting services from Northern, TransPennine Express, and Transport for Wales. A spokesperson for National Rail stated, "A points failure at Earlestown means all lines are currently closed. As a result, trains running between Liverpool Lime Street and Warrington Bank Quay may be cancelled or revised. Disruption is expected until 09:00." As a result of the points failure, trains between Liverpool Lime Street and Manchester Victoria will be diverted via an alternative route. However, this diversion will not serve Lea Green or Newton-le-Willows. Rail replacement buses have been arranged to operate between Liverpool Lime Street and Manchester Victoria, providing an alternative for affected passengers. Rail replacement transport is also being provided for Northern customers. National Rail confirmed that services will run between Huyton and Manchester Oxford, as well as between Warrington Bank Quay and Manchester Victoria in both directions. Passengers are advised that their journeys could take an hour longer than usual when using road transport. A comprehensive list of affected services has been released, including: - Northern services between Chester and Leeds via Manchester Victoria - Northern services between Chester and Manchester Victoria - Northern services between Liverpool Lime Street and Manchester Airport - TransPennine Express services between Liverpool Lime Street and Newcastle - Transport for Wales services between Chester and Manchester Airport The travel chaos is expected to continue until around 9am, forcing many commuters to seek alternative routes to work and school. As the situation develops, further updates will be provided to keep passengers informed of their travel options.