WEARY rail passengers endured three-hour delays and were forced to evacuate a train that had suffered a total brake failure just before Trowbridge station.

The 6.30pm Cardiff Central to Portsmouth Harbour service broke down on the way into Trowbridge just before 8pm last Thursday night and passengers did not get moving again until around 11pm.

Passengers were trapped in the train for an hour before police and railway staff evacuated them by going along a footpath up near the old Bowyer’s factory.

A replacement Great Western Railway train finally carried passengers out of Trowbridge three hours after the total brake failure.

Passenger Philip Fowler said: “Transport Police had to evacuate the train. Passengers were taken down a ladder and walked across a field to the path behind what was Bowyers.

“Trolley refreshments had been free but passengers were reluctant to take advantage as all toilets blocked. One gentleman had to leave his bicycle behind. Some passengers were in a fix due to missing late evening connections. How would you fare if you are disabled?”

Passerby Thomas Taylor, 42, said: “It is a very long time to wait. It was quite a big deal because I do not think trains that were coming from Bath, for example, would have been able to get past.”

A GWR spokesman said: “Unfortunately, the 6.30pm Cardiff to Portsmouth Harbour service broke down outside of Trowbridge just before 8pm; replacement taxis and buses were requested and customers taken forward at the first opportunity. We are very sorry for the inconvenience caused, and would urge those on board to get in touch to request a refund.”