The train line between Ashford International and Otford via Maidstone East will be closed from 2am until 7am tomorrow.

The move comes after a member of staff was taken sick and passengers could face delays when comuting, including diversions and replacement buses.

Network Rail Services Kent and Sussex explained that it did could not find any other qualified members of staff to run the signal box in Maidstone, which controls the line affected.

A spokesman for the company said: "We’re really sorry for the disruption to early-morning trains through Maidstone East tomorrow after a member of our team was taken sick.

"We’ve found cover for every shift with the exception of the five hours between 2am and 7am on Wednesday, when trains won’t be able to run."

“This is a very rare occurrence and isn’t related to covid, but winter bugs."

According to South Eastern Railway, early morning trains on this route will be diverted via Tonbridge and will not stop at stations between Charing and Swanley.

Whilst the line is closed, replacement buses will run between Ashford International and Maidstone East, and between Maidstone East and Swanley.

Another replacement bus will also run from Maidstone East to Ashford International at 5am.

South Eastern recommend passengers travelling to London from the affected stations should take the bus to Ashford International and take either Mainline or High Speed services at no extra charge.

People travelling from Maidstone are being advised to use trains from Maidstone Barracks or Maidstone West, and travel via Paddock Wood.

The first through train to London is expected to be the 06.57am from Ashford to London Victoria, which is expected to have a slight delay.

However, the first train on the route towards Ashford International - at 6.22am from Maidstone East to Minster - will be cancelled. Trains between Swanley and Sevenoaks will run as normal.

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