Breakdown traps hundreds in Chunnel

A Eurostar train broke down in the Channel Tunnel last night leaving the 469 passengers on board trapped for two-and-a-half hours.

The train, travelling from London and bound for Paris, stopped about 12 miles into the 30-mile tunnel after a "complete mechanical failure", a Eurostar spokesman said. It was pulled out by two French diesel locomotives. The passengers, who will be offered a refund, were transferred to a high speed train.

The Eurostar spokesman said: "This was a one-off incident although clearly we apologise to those passengers involved. The trains are extremely reliable and this is the first time one has broken down in the tunnel."

He added: "We have had setbacks in the past and have bounced back. I am sure we will do the same this time."