THERE are widespread delays across Metrolink this morning following a signalling upgrade during the night overran.

Services across the network began running later than usual because of the IT systems upgrade.

Trams are now running as normal but some lines are experiencing delays, including Ashton-under-Lyne, City Zone and Rochdale via Oldham.

Peter Cushing, TfGM’s Metrolink Director, said: “The over-run delayed the launch of services this morning and passengers may experience delays to their journeys as a result.

“I apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

A Metrolink spokesman said: “A signalling systems issue prevented Metrolink services from launching on time this morning, Monday 11 July.

“A planned overnight network-wide IT system upgrade over-ran, which meant services launched late, at around 6.30am, but this will lead to delays over the morning peak.

“PAs at stops and the Passenger Information Displays were also affected, which meant customers could not be updated directly.

“Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has arranged for Metrolink tickets and passes to be accepted on Northern and First TransPennine Express train services in Greater Manchester in the meantime.

Passengers are advised to check www.tfgm.com and the @OfficialTfGM and @MCRMetrolink twitter feeds for updates.