Broken down train disrupts rail services

Rail services in Kent have been disrupted by a broken down train and an electricity supply failure.

Southeastern said trains in the Ashford International area were delayed until about 11:45 BST.

Engineers were deployed at 07:10 to investigate the failure and to resolve the issue, the company said.

Services were also unable to run towards St Pancras from Ashford International due to a broken down train between Ashford and Ebbsfleet.

A limited highspeed service was running on that route, but trains were delayed as services in both directions are using the same piece of track to bypass the broken down train.

Another train was used to attach to the broken down train and pull it clear of the line, a Southeastern spokesman said.

At 11:37, the spokesman said: “The second set of coaches from the broken down train has now arrived at Ashford, and the line towards St Pancras is now clear.”

Alternative routes were available on trains via Tonbridge or Maidstone East.

Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.