Piccadilly line hit by delays after Tube door opens between stations

The Piccadilly line has been hit by severe delays this weekend after a door opened on a moving train, prompting safety fears.

London Underground said a full inspection was carried out following the incident on Saturday morning, to check there were not any wider problems with Piccadilly line trains.

Tube services between the capital and Heathrow airport have been severely disrupted by the problems, with passengers heading to the airport left stranded at Acton Town.

The Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union said it had repeatedly raised concerns about trains on the Piccadilly line.

RMT general secretary Mick Cash said: "RMT has repeatedly raised questions about the safe operation of the Piccadilly line fleet and the door incidents have thrown the issue right back into the spotlight.

"RMT safety reps are investigating the current situation and our absolute priority as always is the safety of passengers and Tube staff alike.

"There can be no compromising on safety while these issues remain unresolved."

The Transport for London website said there were severe delays on the Piccadilly Line with no service on some sections, blaming a temporary shortage of train operators.

A message said: "Your tickets will be accepted on the local buses and Great Northern and Heathrow Connect train services. Please avoid using the line."

London Underground operations director Pat Hansberry said: "We are very sorry for the delays to Piccadilly line services this weekend.