A broken down train is causing travel chaos in part of the county.

Passengers had to be rescued from a damaged train in Swanley which is expected to cause disruption for the rest of the day.

The fault on the London-bound line between Rochester and Swanley was noticed at around 6.20am.

A Southeastern spokesman said: “We’re sorry for the disruption to our passengers using the railway on the Sole Street line today. This was as a result of infrastructure issues at Swanley which meant that one of our trains was unable to take power.

“Investigations revealed damage to our train which draws power from the conductor rail.

“Network Rail’s response teams have carried out safety inspections of the track and identified a fault with the conductor rail which caused the damage.

“The London bound line from Rochester to Swanley will remain blocked for the rest of the day. Due to the extent of the repairs needed, Network Rail require a line block in both directions and have advised this will be carried out over night to minimise the impact the train service.

“Because of the emergency engineering works at Swanley some London-bound lines are blocked, with train services running through this station may be cancelled, delayed or revised. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.

"Customers who don’t wish to use the replacement bus service may board a Rochester bound train and use their tickets at no extra cost on Southeastern Highspeed Services from Rochester.

The train company says there will be major disruption at Swanley and Maidstone East.

A replacement bus is being run from Rochester and is calling at Sole Street, Meopham, Longfield, Farningham Road and Swanley.

A Network Rail spokesman added: "We've found the cause of the power supply problems on the route between Rochester and Swanley.

"Something has caused the live rail to arc to the running rail, and burned enough of a gap to rip the current collector equipment from passing trains.

"We don't know what has caused the arc - it's not clear and it's possible the cause has burned to ashes now.

"Repairs will take a while as we need to cut damaged rails out (both the running rail and conrail) so please check before you travel on the route today."

Southeastern and Network Rail have been approached for more information.

More as we get it.