TEMPORARY speed restrictions are being imposed on trains in the West Midlands today (Thursday, February 23) due to Storm Doris, Network Rail has announced.

Gusts of up to 80mph are expected batter the West Midlands when Storm Doris arrives from the Atlantic, with forcecasters issuing an an amber weather alert from 6am.

With high winds forecast, train services will be limited to 50mph for safety reasons from Marylebone to Birmingham and across the West Midlands.

Mark Killick, chief operating officer for Network Rail’s London North Western route, said: “In light of the anticipated poor weather caused by Storm Doris, temporary 50mph speed restrictions will be imposed across sections of the West Coast route, the Chiltern line and the West Midlands.

“This may lead to delays on some services. The purpose of these speed limits is safety. Keeping passengers and railway staff safe is, as always, our top priority.

“Weather conditions will be continually monitored and if they change we will revaluate our response.

“We’re deploying extra Network Rail staff to deal with any issues such as fallen trees, and overhead line issues with the aim of keeping people on the move."

Passengers can find the latest information by visiting nationalrail.co.uk.