Kent commuters have been given an apology this morning after severe disruption on trains last night.

A fire took out the signals at London Bridge - meaning no trains could run to the county from there, Cannon Street, Charing Cross or Waterloo East for more than two hours.

Network Rail today said the cause of the fire is being investigated and it is sorry for the delays caused.

Southeastern said it was "very sorry" for the problems and said passengers whose journeys were delayed by at least 30 minutes could claim compensation.

No one was hurt in the blaze, which broke out in a signalling equipment room at 4.45pm.

It was dealt with by Network Rail staff and trains began running again from 7pm.

Fiona Taylor, Network Rail's route managing director for Kent, said: "Fire caused a complete loss of signalling in the London Bridge area during the evening's peak, with severe disruption to train services.

"It was a very difficult evening for everyone and I would like to apologise to passengers who were caught up in the delays.

"We are investigating the cause of the fire and thank everyone for their patience."