Named: Walsall Hero pilot steered clear of houses

Jan 3 2009 by Andy Richards, Birmingham Mail

Inspectors from the Air Accidents Investigation Branch were this evening examining the scene to find the possible cause of the crash.

Police said it was expected post mortems would be carried out on Sunday.

All rail services on the West Coast Mainline between Rugby and Stafford remained suspended tonight.

British Transport Police warned that the line was unlikely to be fully repaired this weekend.

Rush hour services from London’s Euston station to Liverpool Lime Street, Birmingham New Street and Glasgow Central were all cancelled.

Tempers frayed among some passengers forced to endure long delays.

Michael Downes, 44, from Warrington, was among those waiting at Euston.

He said: “I was supposed to be home with my family by now instead I’m stuck here and don’t know how long before I get back.

“I know it’s an accident, it’s nobody’s fault, but where’s the help? Yes, I think they could be doing more for us.”

Virgin Trains diverted its services via Birmingham and Wolverhampton, adding up to 40 minutes to journey times.

The company said all tickets would be valid for travel with other train operators or could be used tomorrow.

Rail operator London Midland laid on replacement buses between Crewe and Rugby and between Wolverhampton and Crewe.