A vehicle smashing into a railway bridge has sparked train delays this afternoon.

Network Rail says response staff are en route to inspect the bridge at Walmer, near Deal, after the incident shortly after 1pm.

Delays were expected until 3pm while inspections for damage are carried out.

A Network Rail statement said: “A road vehicle has struck a bridge near Walmer. Response staff are en route to inspect the bridge, due at about 2pm.

“The line between Martin Mill and Deal is blocked until an inspection of the bridge has taken place.

“Trains that normally run between Ramsgate and Dover will be diverted via Canterbury West.

“Replacement buses have been ordered to run between Dover and Ramsgate and are due to run from about 2pm.

“You may use your ticket on these Stagecoach bus routes at no extra charge: 93 and 81 between Sandwich, Deal and Dover.”

Trains are now on the move but some delays will remain.