Network Rail could be forced to open up a freight line to train passengers in order to keep services to and from Hull ticking over.

The two main lines that link the Humberside city to Doncaster will soon be out of action for more than a month and this could leave people travelling to Hull in limbo, BBC News reports.

A landslip at Stainforth in South Yorkshire has caused one route to be closed, while planned works on a stretch of rail in Selby will also cause problems.

It is thought that a freight line that runs between Knottingley, West Yorkshire and Doncaster via Goole will be temporarily used for passenger services.

Phil Verster, route managing director at Network Rail, told the news provider that the Selby works - which will see a new swing bridge introduced - could be deferred if a workable plan cannot be devised.

Earlier this week (April 8th), Network Rail revealed that national rail punctuality (the number of trains running on time) increased slightly in March 2013.