Trains were suspended and firefighters were called to hose down the tracks after a "power surge".
British Transport Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service were called to Hall Road in Crosby at 12.39pm on Wednesday, May 3 following reports of a fire alongside the Merseyrail train tracks. Emergency services arrived 10 minutes later and got to work isolating the power to the line so they could put out the flames.
Merseyrail trains were cancelled on the Southport Line between Southport and Bootle New Strand between 1.46pm and around 3pm.
READ MORE: Live updates as Merseyrail hit with 'major disruption' on Northern Line
One man was travelling from Brunswick station into the city centre when he was hit by the disruption this afternoon. He was forced to get a taxi to avoid being late for work.
The man, who did not want to be named, told the ECHO: "I was shocked to see all the trains cancelled for the next few hours. I was wondering how I was going to get to work."
Merseyrail’s Head of Customer Strategy, Greg Suligowski, told the ECHO trains were cancelled due to a "power surge on the line.
He said: "A power surge on the Southport line this afternoon caused track circuit and signalling issues between Formby and Southport. The Fire Service attended along with rail engineers and repairs were made to the line.
"Southport services were temporarily suspended between Bootle New Strand and Southport. Our services are now returning to normal, although there may be some delays and cancellations while the normal timetable is restored.
"We are very sorry for the inconvenience this has caused to our passengers."
A fire service spokesperson said: "One fire engine attended and on arrival found a fire alongside the track. Crews worked in conjunction with a fire engineer and British Transport Police to isolate the power and extinguish the fire.
"The fire was fully extinguished by 14.16pm and crews have left the incident with the British Transport Police."
READ NEXT
Police descend on road after man dies suddenly
Mum wants everyone to see horrific injuries after ex boyfriend's six hour attack
Queen Mary 2 coming into Liverpool tonight for Coronation celebration voyage
New Look's £40 polka dot dress that's 'perfect for a wedding'
