A FREIGHT train has derailed in the Midlands, sparking widespread travel disruptions at rush hour.

Several carriages came off the tracks near Whitacre Junction, between Nuneaton and Coleshill.

The crash has affected both London Northwestern and Cross Country trains, British Transport Police (BTP) confirmed.

Photos show a long line of containers either completely on their side or leaning into trees lining the track.

Nobody was injured and National Rail has organised replacement buses between Birmingham International and Nuneaton.

A BTP spokesperson said: "A number of wagons on a freight train service overturned at low speed and blocked the running of the line.

"Police are on scene alongside colleagues from the West Midlands Fire & Rescue Service, fortunately, there are no reported injuries at this stage.

"The departures board at Coleshill Parkway shows the severity of the disruption, with the majority of trains cancelled."

Earlier this month, more than 100 were injured when a two passenger trains collided in South Africa.

Witnesses said some passengers were able to climb out of damaged carriages while others were treated by the side of the track.

The terrifying collision took place on a sharp curve in Selby, a town near Johannesburg.

The reason for the derailment is yet to be confirmed.